Monday, February 28, 2011

“Will Our Leaders Lead?” ~ by Dr. James Vandermark

5 comments:
Your coverage of the battle of balancing the budget has been informative. Clearly, the issue we face is not only balancing the budget (living within one’s means) but also reducing our national debt! I concur that the public structure has far too long spent money they could ill afford to spend (due to the simple process: spend less than one takes in). Such spending shows an unhealthy political pattern of ineptness when it comes to spending. With such pattern comes a lack of trust in areas of fiduciary responsibility. In my opinion, this is one reason for the lack of political involvement (voting polls) and support by citizens. So, I ask, ‘will our leaders lead?’

Regrettably, our penchant to vote in those who mishandle the finances through whimsical spending without a realistic look at the bottom line, and if not altered, will, I fear, irrevocably lead to a financial despair that even the recession did not face. Sadly, it appears to me that even our current administration under our current president seems lackadaisical about the economy. Again, I implore, ‘will our leaders lead?’

Unfortunately, in view of the pending economic crisis on the back of overspending, we as a country and its constituent parts have come to unavoidable crossroads of forced accountability, and no one will enjoy it but everyone must endure it. Many have endured it. Many have lost their jobs. Factories have all but closed. The economy, contrary to the statements coming from political leadership is not rebounding for those of us living in its trenches. Again, I ask of our leaders, ‘will you lead?’

Annie81 sent in these photos of flooding in the Versailles area (Update from Celina)

1 comment:
The first is Seibt Road in Webster. The other two are the old 121 in Versailles.




UPDATE: the photo below shows flooding in Celina. There are many more photos in a slideshow at mercercountyoutlook.com.

They gave of themselves, and now they need your companionship

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The Darke County Chapter of the American Red Cross is looking for friendly volunteers who can share just an hour per week by visiting with local veterans. Volunteers, who must be at least 15 years old, will visit veterans living in one or more nursing care facilities throughout Darke County. Share stories, lend a friendly hand, help with letter writing or just be a friendly ear for these incredible individuals who made it possible for us to enjoy our freedom. Training and a background check are provided, and volunteers will have on-going support to help them fill this important role.

“It’s such a simple yet, heart-felt way to say thank-you to the men and women who have served so selflessly in our Armed Forces. Help us help them by spending a few hours a month sharing a conversation with a veteran who’s living out their life in an assisted living facility,” Lynne Gump, Executive Director, Darke County Chapter American Red Cross
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 http://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, Harry Stephens Trust, and the Darke County HOPE Foundation.

Arrest Warrant Executed

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On Tuesday, February 22, 2011, at approximately 10:30 p.m. the Greenville, Police Department responded to the Star Dust Motel, located at 5436 State Route 49 S., to affect an arrest warrant on Michael Shane Penka.  The warrant, entered through Mercer County, OH, was for Burglary and Breaking and Entering.

Following a short investigation, officers located Penka hiding under a couch in room 114 and arrested him.  Officers also found thousands of dollars in stolen property, including jewelry, electronics, criminal tools and a loaded handgun.  Much of the stolen property was later found to be from a burglary that occurred on February 22, 2011, in neighboring Randolph County, IN.

AFFORDABLE CONTACT HOURS FOR LOCAL NURSES

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Local presentation on congestive heart failure and benefits of yoga.
Area nurses can earn two contact hours, and learn how yoga can benefit their patients, by attending “It’s a Stretch: Congestive Heart Failure Updates and the Benefits of Yoga” on March 29. This program is presented by the Darke County Nursing Education Council and State of the Heart Hospice. It will be held March 29 from 4:30 to 7:15 p.m. in the third floor conference room at Wayne HealthCare, 835 Sweitzer St. in Greenville.

Nurses will receive updates on congestive heart failure and learn how to incorporate the benefits of yoga for patients with any of the following: heart disease, fibromyalgia, cancer, infertility, digestive issues, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Dr. Henry Chong, cardiologist, and Emily Jasenski, experienced registered yoga teacher, will be speaking.

Registration for the event is due by March 22 and includes a $20 fee that covers a light meal and contact hours. Please send your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, and the $20 fee to Diane Crawford, 608 W. George St., Arcanum, Ohio 45304. Make checks payable to DCNEC.

For more information, call Diane Crawford, 937-423-5033, Kelley Hall, 937-548-2999, or Kathy O’Dell, 937-547-0013.

Last U.S. World War I Veteran Dies

3 comments:
R.I.P. Frank Buckles

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Feedback on the comments

11 comments:
A few readers have complained recently about the comments on this website. This is frustrating because some complain that the comments are restricted too much, while others argue that the comments should be restricted more. Obviously all of the readers are never going to be happy, but here are a few thoughts on how the comments are approached.

Melaleuca Presentation at Comprehensive Health - February 28th

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Interested in helping the Environment? Want the best for your family? Concerned about your budget? Come to a presentation to learn more about Melaleuca, an incredible Wellness Company. Melaleuca delivers environmentally friendly and non-toxic cleaning products, health, and beauty supplies ~ better for the environment and safer for your home and family.
WHEN: Monday, Feb 28th at 5pm
Where: Comprehensive Health Network, 5420 St Rt 571, Greenville

Presentation provided by Nancy Dean, Director of Decolores Montessori and Melaleuca Representative Gifts, Food, and Beverage provided.

Annual Kiwanis Pancake Event at GHS - March 19th

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Get ready for all-you-can-eat pancakes and sausage at Greenville Kiwanis’ annual fundraiser on March 19. One of the community organization’s fundraisers each year, the event helps generate funds for scholarships, newborn car seats, the Woodland Heights reading program, financial support for Greenville High School Key Club, Special Olympics and more.

Kiwanians and Key Club members will serve breakfast on Saturday, March 19, from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Greenville High School cafeteria. Tickets are $5 each. They can be purchased from members of Kiwanis and the GHS Key Club, as well as a variety of other community service organizations. Or get them at the door.

Kiwanis is donating $1 for each ticket sold by charity organizations to be used as fundraising projects of their own. Come on out and join us. Great food for a good cause.

Oakley House HOSTS Continuing Nursing Education

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Oakley House will host a Continuing Nursing Education Presentation “Nutritional Issues at the End of Life. The event will take place on March 10th, at 7pm and is open to the public. The CEU is presented by Heartland Hospice Services, in conjunction with Gem City Home Care, Versailles Health Care Center, Active Healing Solutions KCI and ComForcare Seniors Services. One (1) contact hour will be awarded for nurses.

Program will include nutritional changes that are addressed at the end of life. The program explores interventions to control symptoms and maximize quality of life. Ethical issues related to nutritional needs at the end of life will be discussed. The importance of IV hydration and tube feeding is addressed.

To RSVP for the event please contact Bridget Sharp at Oakley House 937-548-9521. Oakley House is located at 1275 Northview Drive in Greenville, OH.

Lodge Meeting Reminder

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The Versailles Masonic Lodge #290 will have its regular Temple Board meeting on Thursday, March 3, 2011 in the Lodge room at 7:00 p.m. This will be followed by the scheduled Lodge meeting at 7:30 p.m. All members are reminded to mark the calendars and plan to attend. We will be preparing for our annual inspection on March 23rd at 7:00 p.m. Remember that Lodge meets the first and third Thursdays of the month September through June. Please try to attend this and all meetings!

Last Call for Ornament Sale!

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Thank you Versailles for supporting your Versailles Alumni Association’s commemorative ornament sale!
We want to thank our friend Nancy Overholser, of Nancy O’s for selling and being our pick-up point for this project. If you still want an ornament, there are a few remaining in both styles at $15.00 each. We are planning to release our Christmas 2011 ornament at Poultry Days. This will be the current 2010 Versailles School Building.

We hope to keep the same price as long as we can. All proceeds benefit our All Class Reunion and other Alumni projects.

Start your collection today with your first and second in the series of Versailles Area Schoolhouse ornaments, a keepsake that will last a lifetime.

Nehring joins Fort GreeneVille Chapter of D.A.R.

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New member to the Fort GreeneVille Chapter is Taylor Nehring. Taylor is a senior at Northmont High School and will be attending University of Dayton. She is the daughter of Regent Chris Nehring.

Welcome Taylor!

DAR donates to Main Street Greenville

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Amber Schmerge of Main Street Greenville was the guest speaker at the February Fort GreeneVille Chapter meeting. It was held in the 2nd floor meeting room of the historical downtown Palace. Amber spoke about Main Street Greenville's mission, objectives, and programs. The chapter presented Amber with a donation. Pictured are Amber Schmerge and DAR member Mary Kay Felton.

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Citizens of Minster meet to discuss wind turbines (submitted by Maria C.)

9 comments:
Over 120 people were in attendance at the Minster Knights of Columbus Hall on Wednesday to listen to a presentation on Wind Turbines.  Jim Niekamp of St. Henry presented information on both the pros and cons of wind turbines.

Benefits to hosting the turbines include monetary gain to approximately 30-60 landowners, tax money to the communities and schools affected, and a few permanent jobs created. The negative impacts include: loss of property values, noise nuisances, health effects from noise and shadow flicker, and wildlife and livestock issues, to name a few.

Wayne HealthCare Holds a Jean Day for the Cancer Association of Darke County

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Wayne HealthCare held a Jean Day for their employees and the proceeds went to the Cancer Association of Darke County. Throughout the years, Wayne HealthCare has donated to our organization and we are sincerely appreciative. The donation will help us cover the costs of our patient services, which will help our 180+ patients this month.

The Cancer Association of Darke County exists to provide support for people in Darke County that have been diagnosed with cancer. The Cancer Association reimburses their patients for expenses including: mileage, medication, medical supplies, and nutritional supplementation. Our organization also offers a monthly support group, a volunteer driver program, free wigs and head coverings for cancer patients, educational materials for the prevention and early detection of all cancers, information booths at various Darke County events, and speakers for groups interested in learning more about our organization. The Cancer Association also makes one yearly donation to an accredited research organization that works with Darke County residents. The Cancer Association is an independent non-profit organization that exists because of donations from people just like you! The Cancer Association of Darke County is not affiliated with the American Cancer Society and does not receive donations or financial assistance from their organization. For more information about the Cancer Association of Darke County, please call the office at 937-548-9960.

Help wanted: Greenville First United Methodist Church

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Greenville First United Methodist Church is seeking a responsible, trustworthy, Child Care Worker who will lovingly care for our infants – 3 year-olds during worship, Sunday School and Special services and events in a safe environment. Call 548-3075 for a job description and application.

Darke County Friends of The Shelter - Pet of the week

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The Darke County Animal Shelter presents its pet of the week: Portia is a 1-year-old Great Dane/Lab mix. She is bluish gray with a white chest. She also has short hair. She is a friendly girl, is current on her shots and has been altered. She is house broken and good with kids. She is a friendly girl and weighs around 80 pounds. She is looking for a good home.

We also have a little terrier mix; a couple of labs, a shepherd, a Pointer mix a boxer mix and numerous other dogs. We also have cats and kittens for adoption.

The Shelter hours are 8am till 4:30pm Monday-Friday and 9:00 till noon on Saturday. The Shelter is located at 5066 County Home Road in Greenville, and the phone number is 547-1645. 2011 dog license are available at the Shelter and the Auditors office. Every dog older than 3 months of age need to have a license.

For more information and to see the dogs we have go to our web site at www.darkecountyanimalshelter.com.

Friday, February 25, 2011

All snow emergencies cancelled effective 2/25 @ 4pm

2 comments:
You can view the latest road and weather information at: www.DarkeCountySheriff.org and at www.Facebook.com/DarkeCountySheriff.

A truck slid off the road on U.S. 127 a few miles south of Greenville - 2/25 @ 8:30a.m.

Greenville FFA Alumni pancake breakfast

1 comment:
Update: The Greenville FFA Alumni breakfast has been cancelled for Sat. morn. due to the weather.

The Greenville FFA Alumni Inc. will be having their annual all you can eat pancake and sausage breakfast this Sat.,Feb.26, from 8:30-11:30 A.M. at GHS cafeteria.There will be milk, coffee and juice to drink. Ticket’s are available at the door. Adult price is $6 and children 4 and under are free. All proceeds go to help the FFA students to go to judging contests, attend conventions,get teaching aides, and purchase tools for the shop.

From the Visitors Bureau: Darke County Events for March 2011

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Daffodils and smiling faces... two things that remind us of spring. With the long winter we've endured, it's time to spring into action and plan a getaway with that someone special. Read on to learn about unique events taking place in and around Darke County, Ohio. For more details, click on the red links below or visit our website at http://www.visitdarkecounty.org/ or become a Fan on Facebook at Darke County Visitors Bureau.

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

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The Collective Bargaining Debate Facts Tell the True Story

In the past few weeks you have heard a lot of discussion about collective bargaining for public employees. This issue must be addressed, but when considering important proposals that will affect the lives of many good Ohioans you must assess the facts. I am committed to keeping my door open and discussing the facts with anyone interested. Currently, all the talk about this issue has centered on a Senate Bill introduced by Senator Shannon Jones. SB 5 could be changed significantly before it ever comes before the House for consideration. Over the coming months considerable time will be spent researching this topic. At stake are livelihoods, children, and incorrect use of state and local dollars.

The work of our teachers, state employees, university employees, fire fighters, police officers, and other local employees is greatly respected. Taking up a call to public service is admirable and at a time like this we are all called to be part of the solution to put Ohio back on her feet. The effects of this bill are different for all public employees, however, it will revolutionize collective bargaining in a way which will reinvigorate our state, ensure the long-term use of collective bargaining agreements in the needed fields, and promote a new found relationship between employees and administrators not currently experienced in many public sector jobs where collective bargaining agreements curtail interaction between employee and employer.

As changes are considered members of the house will get to know many new faces and it is important to hear their concerns. Constituents in favor and opposition to these changes will contact our offices, meet us in the district, and come to Columbus to voice their concerns. I can hear those concerns and I have been impressed by the positive encounters I have had with protestors and constituents. I look forward to listening to more concerns and working with impacted constituents to ensure the most positive changes are made to public employee collective bargaining law. This is an important issue and it has drawn state and national media attention. However, the concerns of people in my district and the facts are the most important things to consider.

In 1983, SB 33 passed the legislature which provided public employees the ability to collective bargain with the right to strike. That same year saw our state personal income tax increase permanently by 90%. In 1983, Ohio had 21 U.S. Congressmen. In 2011 we will be redistricting for 16. Ohio is back pedaling and needs a total new direction to get our economy moving forward. Passage of collective bargaining reform will help with this process.

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Versailles Area Historical Society News

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Your Versailles Area Historical Society (VAHS) held a most successful Open House on Sunday February 20, 2011, at the site of their new museum. Many community minded individuals stopped by to see the facilities and to learn about the plans for the museum. Coffee and cookies were served and many great discussions were held.

On Saturday the Board of Trustees met with Andy Verhoff of the Ohio Historical Society. Mr. Verhoff is an expert at museum planning and offered the group many ideas for the museum and praised the group’s efforts in the sound planning that has already been implemented.

An exciting year full of activities is being planned, but without your support, how can we hope to have the quality museum that the Versailles area expects and deserves?

Below the jump note our annual membership fund and become a supporter of preserving our community and local areas history for future generation! We need YOU!

Update on the coming storm

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The roadways will be pretty bad Friday morning.  Much of the north may see 3-5", with again, the far north seeing the 5-7"+. Click on the badge to read the rest of the details.

House for sale on Dull Road

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Nature Lover? Beautiful views from every window. This property features 10.8 Acres of wooded land with a small stream running on the west side of the property. Sit and relax in the added great room overlooking the pond and woods. Family room features a stone wall fireplace with wood burning buck stove insert . The eat-in kitchen offers all appliances. This home has the original hard wood floors in the bedrooms. There has been new carpet put in the living & family room in 2008. The master bathroom has been totally remodeled and has a new custom tiled walk in shower. New well pump and pressure tank put in the summer of 2009. This property features several outbuildings with 200 amp service. Brick building (24x36) with attached lean to (26x14) includes a full loft and a heated shop. Pole Barn (12x30). Home has a built in rain soft water system with reverse osmosis. This home is in the Arcanum School district and minutes from Franklin Monroe. This is a one of a kind property on the market, priced to sell with a great location. For more information or to set up a tour please call 937-692-5887 or 937-417-4511.

Lady Wave Softball silent auction - March 5th

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The Lady Wave Softball team will be hosting their annual Silent Auction Sat. March 5th @ the American Legion from 6:30 to 11:00 pm. Tickets are available from your favorite team member or at the door. Tickets are $10, This year there are over 30 OHIO STATE and REDS signed items available along with some other great auction pieces. Come out and support the girls as they "Strive for their Sixth Straight District Championship."

SCOUTING THIS GROWING SEASON: Weeds (Extension News Release)

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Its time to talk about my favorite topic in pest management, weed control! Actually I should say management, control denotes a reactionary measure. We want to be proactive when it comes to taking care of our weeds. This is especially true when it comes to tough to handle weeds like marestail. Knowing a little about our weeds lifecycle can also help us plan a program to manage it.

Let’s use marestail as a case study. Here we have an ugly weed that can begin to emerge as early as August and continue emergence late into the fall. Those plants then overwinter and as wheat breaks dormancy, so does marestail. This is complicated by stragglers that emerge in the spring time. Marestail throws us another curve beginning in late April by switching from being a small basal rosette to bolting into the tall plant we typically see peaking through the soybean canopy. As if that wasn’t bad enough we also have populations in Ohio that are resistant to glyphosate and ALS herbicides.

YMCA Launches Kids Craft Classes

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The YMCA of Darke County is launching new craft classes for kids ages seven to twelve. These one-hour Saturday afternoon sessions are designed to get kids out of the house, into a peer group, and full of craft-making excitement.

Kids will be introduced to simple humanities like the Japanese paper-folding art called origami, featured in Origami-Novies this March. Each Saturday will introduce two new origami pieces, including: frogs, flapping birds, butterflies, lilies, houses, pigs, boats, flies, and ducks.

Keep on the look-out for more classes like From Trash to Treasure, Book Making, and Knitting Needlers. This April’s Saturdays will theme Crazy Cartooning

For more information on registration and class details, call the Greenville YMCA at 548-3777.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Diabetes Day set for April 9th at Wayne HealthCare

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Type 2 Diabetes is a disease in which your pancreas does not make any or enough insulin, or your body prevents the insulin you produce from working correctly. Insulin is necessary for your body to use glucose, from the food we eat, for energy. High levels of glucose caused by uncontrolled blood sugar can damage eyes, heart, kidneys, nerves, legs, and feet.

As a diabetic, you need to take a positive approach by making changes to help manage your blood glucose. One way to learn about changes you can make to maintain or improve your blood glucose is by attending Diabetic Day.

World War II veteran Bob T. Harshman passed away Sunday

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Bob T. Harshman, 83, of Union City, OH passed away Sunday evening, February 20, 2011 at Union City Care Center of Union City OH. He was born March 6, 1927 in Union City, OH the son of Omar Thelbert and Helen Gladden (Haley) Harshman. He attended Union City Eastside and Wayne High School. He honorably served during WW II in the Army Air Force, later called the United States Air Force.

After returning from overseas, he married, Mary Belle Griffith. Together they had three sons, Robert (Rusty), Timothy and Michael. After 52 years of marriage, Mary Belle died in the year of 2000.

Bob retired from Union City Body Company as a supervisor in the metal room. Over the years he was involved in many community projects and services, including serving on the board of the Chamber of Commerce, the Community Improvement Council and as a volunteer Medical Technician with the Union City, OH Fire Department.

He was a member of the Union City American Legion Post 158; BPO Elks Lodge #1534 of Union City, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie 2790 of Union City; La Societe des Quarante Hommes et Huit Chevaux (40&8); Knights of Columbus Council #983; Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus Father John Bouvier Assembly of Tipton, IN; the Air Force Association; Bi State Wood Carvers; and Brukner Nature Carvers of Troy, OH. He was also a person that was interested in the environment. He was active with the Sierra Club, Audubon Society and the National Wildlife Federation.

He leaves to cherish his memory three sons, Robert (Rusty) Harshman (wife, Patricia), Tim Harshman (wife, Tracy) and Mike Harshman (wife, Brenda); a brother, Richard “Pappy” Harshman of Union City; seven grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 am Friday, February 25, 2011 at St. Mary’s Church of Union City, IN. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery of Union City, IN. Family and friends may gather to share and remember from 5 - 8 pm Thursday, February 24, 2011 at Fraze-Brooks Memorial Chapel of Union City, IN. Memorial contributions may be made to the Union City, OH Fire Department or St Mary’s Church of Union City. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wilsonshookfuneralhomes.com.

Darke County farmer ordered to pay $5,000 fine for Clean Water Act violation

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Story at wdtn.com.

Great News for Golf Cart Owners!!!!

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Tim's Mowers & More is now an authorized EZ-GO golf cart Dealer.
We are now offering parts/service/warranty on your EZ-GO-Cushman equip.
Come see us at Tim's Mowers & More for your Golf Cart needs.
1317 Sweitzer St., Greenville, Ohio 45331, 937-548-6130

“Living with Cancer” Support Group will be on Thursday, March 3, 2011

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The next meeting of the “Living with Cancer” Support Group will be held on Thursday, March 3rd from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. The meeting will take place at Wayne HealthCare in the 3rd Floor Conference room. This month’s support group features Registered Dietician, Carolyn Doenges, MS RD LD who will be presenting “Healthy Eating and the Cancer Survivor.” She plans to cover topics including diet as it is related to cancer prevention, overall healthy eating, tips for eating out and the importance of portion control and sizes.

Registered Dietitian, Carolyn Doenges, MS RD LD, is originally from Fort Recovery, Ohio. After graduation, she attended The Ohio State University and received a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Human Nutrition and Food management. She went on to complete the required Dietetic Internship along with obtaining a Masters of Science Degree in Medical Dietetics also at Ohio State. She began her career in Dietetics working primarily with chronic kidney disease while working at a kidney dialysis center as a Renal Dietitian. Since then she has been working at Wayne Healthcare for the last 3 ½ years as the Clinical Dietitian. Here, Carolyn enjoys having the opportunity to work with all aspects of nutritional care while covering the hospital inpatient needs, as well as providing medical nutritional therapy on an outpatient basis for people who require more in-depth counseling including various topics such as weight loss, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, low fat, low sodium or cardiac diet.

Your local and independent Cancer Association of Darke County sponsors the “Living with Cancer” group in cooperation with Wayne HealthCare. The Support Group is open to anyone that has been diagnosed with cancer; the family and friends of an individual with cancer are encouraged to attend the group as well. Facilitating the support group meetings will be Warren Richards from the Cancer Association, Kay Kirby, Jill Brown, and Vicky Henderson from Wayne Hospital, and Pam Spitler from Breast Cancer Awareness of Darke County.

For further information, contact the Cancer Association of Darke County office at 937-548-9960. Office hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 A.M. to Noon and 1:00 to 4:30 P.M.

Free Family Movie Nights at EUM!

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Every first Saturday of the month immediately following 6:30 p.m. worship, EUM Church hosts a FREE Family Movie Night, complete with popcorn and drinks. The movie for February is The Game Plan and will be shown on Saturday, March 5. Come on out to the EUM Worship Center at 1451 Sater Street on the corner of Sater and Sebring-Warner Road and enjoy a great family night out!

Come for worship … Stay for the movie!

Children’s programs are provided during worship. For more information, call 548-3211 or go to www.eumchurch.org
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County udpdate from Commissioner Mike Stegall

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While on the campaign trail, I expressed an interest in having the Commissioners put a monthly column in the paper and on the internet to keep everyone informed as much as possible about the goings on in the county. The other 2 Commissioners, Diane Delaplane and Mike Rhoades, quickly agreed that this would be a great way to connect with the citizens of the county. As with most new ideas and plans, we are not really sure how this will work out. By that I mean some months we may have an abundance of news to relate, and some months maybe not so much. Either way we want to keep the community involved as much as possible. We realize that government can and should be accountable to the people who elect them, and with that in mind, this will be one way to start down a path that eventually leads to more trust in our elected officials. One thing should be noted here, this will be a complete collaboration from this column forward between all the Commissioners and I hope to relate any news our elected officials in the courthouse can contribute.

In my short time as Commissioner, I have found that we have a very dedicated and honorable group of elected people and their staffs in the courthouse. Most of them are never thought about until election time, and that is a shame because I can tell you that everyone who works in the courthouse is very hard working, and always willing to help. We are going through some tough economic times right now, and every department has helped contribute to the financial stability the county has at this point. I would like to publicly say “Thank You” to those people for really making the county work, and for helping me to understand how things work.

Now, for the county news, I can tell you that the Commissioners have had several meetings with our Senators and Representatives on what to expect the 2nd half of this year. As of now, all we are hearing is that for the next 2 years, things are going to be tough. We are told to expect cuts in every program and that nothing is exempt. This theme has been repeated to us several times, so we have taken steps accordingly. We are going to assume the worst possible case and anything better than that will be a bonus. It is not all doom and gloom; however, it seems the business climate in Darke County is on the rise. The new Continental Carbonic plant is moving along, as is the new American Plastics Recycling on Jaysville -St. Johns Road. Welcome to these new members of Darke County. Our Economic Development Director, Marc Saluk, is working very hard on job retention and new job procurement. Right now, our Economic Development Department is working with about 15 companies on new jobs and job retention. Along with the Partnering for Progress group, the Chamber of Commerce, and the C. I. C., the job climate in the county is looking up. This is a collaboration between private enterprise and government that is proving to be more successful than we could have hoped. Marc is very positive at this point that we will have some good news in the next couple of months.

We hope that this column becomes a source of information and discussion for the people of Darke County. All of the Commissioners believe that communication with our elected officials and the citizenry is key to developing a trust and confidence in local government. We invite everyone to come to a Commissioners meeting anytime. We meet publicly every Monday and Wednesday at 1:30 in the Commissioners office located at 520 South Broadway in Greenville. Hope to see you there!

Mike Stegall, Darke County Commissioner

A message from the Rossburg Fire Department

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Early Morning Discovery Hikes

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Darke County Parks-Hikes occur every Tuesday morning at 8AM at Shawnee Prairie Preserve. It’s not hard to wake up happy on a spring morning! These hikes focus on bird watching, trees, fungi, wildflower ID, and more! Bring binoculars or borrow from us. Dress for the weather as the hikes will take place in all weather conditions. Call the Nature Center for more information. Hope to see you next Tuesday!

Waffle Breakfast

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Help the Friends of the Parks kick off Darke County Parks’ Maple Sugarin’ at the Prairie’ Festival with a hearty breakfast of waffles, sausage, juice, coffee and of course pure Ohio Maple Syrup! Carry-out is Available. Breakfast will be served from 7:00am-10:30am on Saturday, March 5, only. Tickets, ($5.00) can be picked up at the Nature Center or from any Friend of the Parks member. Call 937-548-0165 for more details.

Maple Sugarin’ at the Prairie

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Freezing nights and thawing days are the start to a jar of maple syrup! Without these temperature fluctuations, people would never have discovered such a wonderful treat. Saturday, March 5th from 7:30am-4pm and Sunday, March 6th from 12:00pm-4:00pm is Maple Sugarin’ at the Prairie! This early spring weekend at Shawnee Prairie Preserve offers guided tours through history and science as we learn the process of turning sap into syrup. After our tour through the woods, we’ll visit the Sugar Shack, where you can warm up in the steam-filled evaporator room as the sap spends countless hours on a boil to reduce it down to syrup. Then head out to the Log House where you can visit with our 200-year-old pioneers and discuss 18th century life. Finally complete the day at the Nature Center where the gift shop will be full of maple goodies for your sweet tooth!

Backyard Sugarin’

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Do you have Maple Trees in your yard? Come on out to Shawnee Prairie Preserve Saturday, February 26 at 1 PM and you’ll learn how to tap your own maples, how and when to collect the sap and how to go about turning that sap into maple delights! Demonstrations and hands-on will ensure that by the end of the season, you’ll have the skills to produce your very own maple syrup, sugar, and more! Call the Nature Center today to register at 937.548.0165. Hope to see you on Saturday!

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Sen. Keith Faber speaks about Senate Bill 5 on Fox News

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Chef Jeff prepares his deluxe interpretation of grilled cheese & tomato soup

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Wow that looks good ... click on the photo to check out Jeff's recipe for "tomahto" bisque ...

Presidents Day storytime

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Local children celebrated George Washington's birthday at the Greenville Public Library. Special guests were Squire John Burkett and
Lady Karen Washington Burket. The storytime was hosted by the Fort GreeneVille Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution.

Governor Kasich favors 5 school calamity days per year

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Kasich favors the use of e-days as well. Watch the video here.

2ND ANNUAL KARLH MCCALLISTER MEMORIAL GOLF OUTING SET FOR JUNE 25

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Plans are underway for the Second Annual Karlh McCallister Memorial Golf Outing. This year’s outing is planned for Saturday, June 25, at Greenville Golf Course. Proceeds will benefit Bridges to College, formerly known as the Darke County College Access Program.

The golf outing is sponsored in memory of Greenville resident and businessman Karlh McCallister who helped form the Darke County College Access Program, now Bridges to College, in 2006. Bridges to College helps local high school students go to college through one-on-one mentoring, educational programs, and needs-based scholarships. Last year’s tournament raised more than $11,000 for Bridges to College, a non-profit organization that helps Greenville and Ansonia High School students.

“The turnout last year and response to the outing was bigger and better than we expected,” Barker said. “And most of this was due to Karlh, his friends, family, and acquaintances and those he worked with throughout the community.”

“We’ve moved this year’s outing date to June because so many golfers indicated that an earlier date would work better for them. There will be no increase in entry or sponsor fees, and we will use the same four-person scramble format,” Barker said. “We are working hard to keep the costs down and hope that more golfers will come out, have an enjoyable afternoon and support a worthy cause.”

An optional dinner is planned immediately after the outing and it will be $11 per person. Those wishing to register for the golf outing or to sponsor a hole can access the entry form online at the Bridges to College website, www.bridges2college.org, or by contacting Mike Barker at 423-1924.

DARKE COUNTY DRUG TASK FORCE MAKES ARREST ON ILLEGAL ASSEMBLY FOR THE MFG. OF DRUGS  

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On February 21, 2011 the Darke County Drug Task Force received information that a subject was seeking pre-cursor items (ingredients) for the illegal manufacture of methamphetamine.  Reports indicated that the suspect might be mobile and have the items in a vehicle.  At approximately 10:24 PM Darke County Sheriffs Deputies located the suspect vehicle, near SR49 and Ansonia-Elroy Road.  The vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation and while conducting an investigation Deputies located items commonly used in the manufacture and sale of methamphetamine.
 
Arrested at the scene was Christopher A. Silcott, age 37 of Greenville, Ohio.  Silcott was transported to the Darke County Jail and booked on charges of Illegal Assembly for the Manufacturing of Drugs.
 
This arrest comes on the heels of a February 6th, 2011 arrest where Silcott was charged and arrested for the Illegal Manufacturing of Drugs.  Silcott was out on bond for the February 6th charge when this incident occurred.

DCCA PRESENTS LELAND FAULKNER’S “WORLDS OF WONDER”

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Darke County Center for the Arts will present unique showman Leland Faulkner at Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall in Greenville on Sunday, March 13 at 2 p.m. The final program in DCCA’s 2010-2011 Family Theater Series, “Worlds of Wonder” showcases Faulkner’s skills as an actor, mime, conjurer, and shadowgraph artist. “Leland creates a uniquely entertaining theater event,” explains DCCA Artistic Director Keith Rawlins. “Through simple gestures and amazing technique, this artist awakens imaginations to bring new worlds to life, enabling audiences of all ages to leave his performances filled with their own visions of wonder,” Rawlins stated.

A Leland Faulkner performance creatively uses visual effects to fill paper with movement as shadows seem to be imbued with life and butterflies appear to dance. Faulkner says that his reliance on the visual over the spoken word in his performance grew from his experience in the global community. Born in Afghanistan to American Indian parents, the actor lived for seven years in Tanzania ahd has traveled throughout Europe and Asia. According to Rawlins, Faulkner’s performances have earned international critical acclaim.

DCCA’s Family Theater Series is sponsored by DP&L Company Foundation, Midmark Corporation, Second National Bank, HOPE Foundation, Greenville Federal, The Andersons, Gordon Orthodontics, Edison Community College, Wayne Healthcare, Greenville Rotary Club, Jordan Insurance Agency, Greenville Kiwanis Club, Criterion, Club and Dan and Marty Schipfer. DCCA also receives support from Harry D. and Esther Stephens Memorial, Lydia E. Schaurer Memorial Trust Fund, and Ketrow Foundation. In addition, the Ohio Arts Council helps fund Darke County Center for the Arts with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence, and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.

Tickets for Leland Faulkner’s “Worlds of Wonder” are $5, and can be reserved by contacting DCCA at 937-547-0908 or dcca@centerforarts.net. Tickets are also available at Readmore’s Hallmark in downtown Greenville and Worch Memorial Public Library in Versailles, and will be available at the door the day of the performance.

ADSN SPONSORS CHARITY QUARTER CRAZE TO BENEFIT LOCAL BOY

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Arcanum Direct Sales Network (ADSN), a local networking group based in Arcanum, is sponsoring a charity quarter auction, QUARTERS FOR QUENTIN, on March 11, 2011 to benefit Quentin Dieterle, a 7-year old born with Idiopathic Colon Disease, whose family is from the Arcanum area. The auction is to be held at the Beechwood Golf Course which is located at 1476 State Route 503 in Arcanum. The doors will open at 6pm with the auction beginning at 7pm. Admission is $1 at the door and bidding paddles are $1 each. In addition to the auction, there will be a 50/50 raffle, door prizes and other chances to win. All money raised will help cover Quentin’s extensive medical bills and transportation costs.
There is no known cure for Idiopathic Colon disease. This disorder requires many hospitalizations for treatments and surgeries including two within recent weeks to remove the remaining sections of his colon in hopes of him leading a normal childhood. Quentin will require a colostomy bag for the rest of his life. Sources state that the next 24-48 hours are crucial and that depending on the outcome he will require additional surgery in 3-6 months. Quentin is fed through a feeding tube which he must take with him wherever he goes. Money raised at this event will help ease the burden on the family finances.
ADSN is made up of several independent consultants from many direct sales companies such as Pampered Chef, Gold Canyon Candles, Usborne Books, Azuli Skye jewelry, and more. If you have never been to a Quarter Craze, this is one auction you do not want to miss! There will be many items to bid on ranging in retail value of $10-$100. A Quarter Craze is a fast paced event where participants use quarters to bid on items based on its retail value (i.e. $10-$25=1 quarter, $26-$50=2 quarters, etc.). Attendees are encouraged to bring 1-2 rolls of quarters for the evening.
ADSN asks that all bidders be 18 years of age or older. Please no non-bidding children. Food and drinks will be available for purchase provided by Beechwood Golf Course Kitchen. Seating is limited. To RSVP for the event, please contact Kayleigh Parks at 937-336-1348.


It's where you work: Darke County Farmers

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The Miami Valley has the top ranked agricultural counties in Ohio. Take a look in the day of the life of two Miami Valley farmers. It's Where You Work: Miami Valley Farmers. [click image for video / courtesy Dayton's News Scource and Andrew Michael]

Help wanted: Tim's Mowers & More

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Tim's Mowers & More is looking for an experienced small engine mechanic for the upcoming season.
Applicant should have prior experience in 4cyl and 2cyl engine diagnostic and repair skills.
OPEESA certification preferred but not required. Kohler and Briggs certified preferred.
Welding, engine rebuilding, some light fabrication involved.
Serious applicants only!!!

Applicants can drop off resume at Tim's Mowers & More
1317 Sweitzer St. Greenville, Ohio 45331. No Phone calls PLEASE.

Youth for Christ of the Miami Valley host Free Gospel Sing

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Parent and Preschooler Adventures

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Hey Parents and Preschoolers! Looking for some hands-on learning about the natural world all around you? Join a Naturalist at Shawnee Prairie for a monthly, hour-long program designed to investigate nature through activities, games and exploring. There are programs for 2-3 year olds (held on Wednesdays) and a program for 4-5 year olds (held on Thursdays). March’s topic is The Whoo’s, What’s and Where’s of Owls. Owls are secretive and oh so intriguing. Many of Ohio’s owls begin nesting in February or March, while other birds are just trying to keep warm. We’ll listen to the calls, talk about what they eat, and learn as much as we can about these ‘tigers of the night.’ March’s 2-3 year old dates are the 16th and the 30th and the 4-5 year old date will be the 17th. Each program runs from 10-11 am. Parents must attend along with their preschooler. Pre-registration is required and the cost is $2.00. Also coming up in April we will celebrate the Earth and in May we will learn about life in a Log House. Call the Nature center for more information at 937-548-0165. We hope to see you in March!

Monday, February 21, 2011

Level 1 Ice/Snow Emergency (eff. 2/21 @ 8PM ~ cancelled 2/22 @ 9AM)

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Darke County Sheriff Toby L. Spencer has issued a Level 1 Ice/Snow Emergency for Darke County . This Snow Emergency has been issued to warn those who must travel on Darke County roadways to use extreme caution due to the freezing rain, sleet and snow that has fallen. The freezing rain and sleet has led to hazardous road conditions and extreme caution should be used while traveling. This Level 1 Ice/Snow Emergency takes effect immediately at 8:00 PM . Update: Cancelled 2/22 @ 9am.

A LEVEL 1 ICE/SNOW EMERGENCY DOES NOT IMPOSE ANY RESTRICTIONS ON TRAVEL. MOTORISTS MAY TRAVEL AT THEIR OWN RISK.

You can view the latest road and weather information at our website www.DarkeCountySheriff.org and at www.Facebook.com/DarkeCountySheriff.

Update: Hope & Change suffers a setback

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Don Wright's iconic "Hope & Change" sign is down -- the wooden posts appearing to be broken and splintered. Was the sign a victim of severe weather? An act of vandalism? Something else? Stay tuned for further developments ...

Help Wanted: Fitzwater Tree and Lawn Care

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ARE YOU READY TO WORK AND LOVE TO BE OUTSIDE?
IF YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING, JOIN OUR TEAM
STRONG WORK ETHIC, GOOD WORK HISTORY, VALID DRIVERS LICENSE
FULL TIME WITH BENEFITS, IMMEDIATE POSITIONS AVAILABLE
GROUND MAN**TREE TRIMMERS**LAWN MAINTENANCE**LANDSCAPING

FITZWATER TREE AND LAWN CARE
at the corner of State Route 49 South and Jaysville St Johns Road Greenville

NO PHONE CALLS

This week at elementsLife

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Daughters of the American Revolution - Presidents Day event

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Join us for a Presidents Day story hour featuring
1st President George Washington
at the Greenville Public Library
Tuesday, Feb. 22 @ 4:00pm
Kids 4 – 7 yrs old

Fort GreeneVille Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution
will be hosting the story hour to promote Literacy


Come To Your Senses with “Dining in the Darke”

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Main Street Greenville is happy to announce its fourth annual “Dining in the Darke” event to be held on Saturday, April 2, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. The event will be a unique expedition into a world of sensuous flavors, smells, and texture using fresh local food from Darke County.

Arriving to a warm welcome and a few words of orientation, guests will be given a uniquely constructed blindfold called a “Mindfold”. Once everyone is immersed in total “darkeness”, guests are gently guided into the dining room where a decadent, three-course meal will be served.

Without vision, information from other senses becomes more noticeable and conversation becomes more intimate. Guests will discover the mysteries of the menu – designed by The Bistro’s chef Lisa Voisard – by using their senses of smell, taste, and touch. To ensure that participants enjoy the full experience, the menu will not be revealed until the evening’s close.

“This year we bring local Darke County foods to the palette to really make flavors and freshness apparent. We encourage participants to explore our downtown while in our community, so we have created an itinerary of sorts of our favorite spots and stops in and around downtown to make for a great afternoon excursion,” stated Becky Dynes, Main Street Greenville volunteer and event coordinator.

Individual tickets are now available for $35. A private table for eight may be reserved for $260. Tickets and tables can be purchased at The Bistro Off Broadway located at 117 E. Fifth Street, Greenville, OH 45331, or by dialing 937-316-5000. Day trip itinerary and past Dining in the Darke experiences can be found on DowntownGreenville.org. For more information contact Main Street Greenville by dialing 937-548-4998. Main Street Greenville would like to thank the event sponsor, KitchenAid Experience® Retail Center, the only KitchenAid® brand store in the world located in downtown Greenville.

Medicare Seminar Scheduled

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Here’s the scoop….on Medicare! Join us on Wednesday, March 2, at 2:00 p.m. in the private dining room at Brethren Retirement Community for an update on Medicare. Find out about your new preventative benefits. Understand the difference between the Medicare Advantage plans and “original” Medicare, (do you know that there is open enrollment until March 31st for Medicare Advantage Plans?). How about the changes in the “donut hole”? Come …and hear the scoop!!…Call Betty at 547-7647 to reserve. Seating is limited.

Darke County YMCA & Greenville Citizens Baseball League Spring Baseball Clinic

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Saturday, April 9th 2011 @ The Greenville YMCA. A great way to get back into the swing of things!
The clinic will focus on hitting, fielding, base running and other basic fundamentals.
Age Time Cost: 6-8 year olds 10:00 - 12:00 $10.00; 9-12 year olds 1:00 - 3:00 $10.00
Pre-registration is encouraged! Same day registration is available, if space allows.
Drop off or mail registration to: Greenville YMCA, 301 Wagner Avenue Greenville, OH 45331
You can get forms online under Handouts at www.greenvillebaseball.net.

GREENVILLE CITIZENS BASEBALL LEAGUE INCORPORATED IS ACCEPTING PLAYER APPLICATIONS

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2011 PLAYER APPLICATION
MUST LIVE WITHIN OR ATTEND A SCHOOL WITHIN THE GREENVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT AREA.
PLAYERS MAY NOT PARTICIPATE IN ANY OTHER BASEBALL ORGANIZATION DURING LEAGUE OR TOURNAMENT PLAY.
MUST BE THREE YEARS-OLD AND NO OLDER THAN 15 YEARS-OLD ON JUNE 1,2011.
RETURN TO SCHOOL OFFICE BY FEBRUARY 25'" OR MAIL TO PO BOX 450, GREENVILLE OH 45331.
You can get a form online at www.greenvillebaseball.net.

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Follow up on wind turbines

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Now being considered by Auglaize County as well. Read about it at The Daily Standard.

Mehaffie: Edison President Valdez will think “outside the box”

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Newly appointed President Cristobal (Cris) Valdez will be coming to a well-rounded institution that has made significant gains in recent years in the variety and types of degrees it offers, according to Edison Community College Trustee Darryl Mehaffie.

“He thinks outside the box,” Mehaffie told members and guests at Saturday’s monthly Darke County Republican Men’s Club meeting. “He wants to take the college to the next level, and will be good at negotiation and drawing people together to do it.”

Valdez leaves his position as Campus Provost and Chief Executive Officer for the Detroit Lakes campus of Minnesota State and Technical College, where he served since March 2007. He was also serving as Provost of the Wadena Campus and Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer for M State.

Valdez earned his bachelor’s degree in social work at the University of Montana, master of social work at Eastern Washington University, and an Ed.D. in Community College Leadership at Oregon State University. Prior to his appointment at M State, Valdez was Dean of Students at the University of Montana-Helena.

According to a bio released by Edison, Valdez believes that comprehensive community and technical colleges allow people to dream and provide the opportunities for those people to realize their dreams. He believes community colleges should remain open-door institutions that aspire to both high academic standards and high rates of student retention and success. “As leaders, we must demand excellence in each of the above areas,” he said.

Mehaffie noted that Edison was not without its problems, referring in part to the 12-16 percent of its budget that is in the hands of decision-makers in Columbus. Valdez will have the vision to make strong strides to the future in all areas, including funding, for both Miami and Darke County campuses.

Mehaffie noted that no longer are students limited to Certificates and Associates Degrees, he said. They can get Bachelors and Masters Degrees without ever stepping foot off campus. These are offered through cooperative programs with the University of Dayton and other colleges.

He told the group that one of the strong positives of a community college is the ability to respond more quickly to the demands of industry than the traditional four-year college. One example he noted was the nursing program at Edison. “It has a waiting list for applicants,” he said.

Mehaffie noted that with Pres. Kenneth Yowell’s announcement that he intended to retire this year, the Board of Trustees began its search last August. It chose a “search” agency at a cost of more than $60,000. After providing the agency with the qualifications requirements, the Board received about 60 applications. This was quickly narrowed down to 14.

The Board then set up an advisory committee, which narrowed the list down to eight. The committee interviewed those applicants then narrowed the list down to four. These individuals were invited to the campus to meet with the Trustees.

The advisory committee held a vote, which it submitted to the Executive Committee of the Board, who then recommended two individuals to the entire Board. The position was offered to – and accepted by – Valdez. The official announcement will be made following the Trustees meeting Wednesday. Yowell, who served as Edison’s president for 23 years, retires April 1. Valdez will officially take the helm on May 2.

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Opinion by Charles and Rebecca Reier: Daily Advocate Fails Basic Accounting

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A race to the bottom in math

The Daily Advocate published an editorial cartoon on February 18th that presents a picture of a bill for defending the “sexual offender residency restriction ordinance law” being handed to parents who ask: “Uh-how much is our portion?” A child at the bottom of the cartoon says: “bbut we could’ve used that money to build a new school!”

The implication of the cartoon is that the potential cost of defending the ordinance will prevent the community from building a new school. Let us carefully examine the validity of this editorial premise. The per capita potential cost of defense is ten to twenty dollars while that of a new school is two thousand six hundred dollars+/-. Indeed the cost (including state contribution) of a new school is 165-330 times the the cost of defense of the “sexual offender residency restriction ordinance law” .

How could the Daily Advocate have missed this point without being infected with an overwhelming bias against the City Council? Is the Daily Advocate guilty of mud-slinging and tabloid journalism?

At this point we, as subscribers to the Daily Advocate, are asking another accounting question. How much is this kind of flawed (unprofessional?) journalism worth to ourselves and the community we support?

Charles E. Reier MD, Rebecca A. Reier

[Addendum by authors: Since the population of the Greenville School District is uncertain but larger than the City, the inflated estimate of legal costs should more than compensate for this difference. Furthermore there is the distinct possibility that significant legal action will never be taken just as the ACLU threat published in the Daily Advocate never materialized.]

Friday, February 18, 2011

Keith Smith benefit 2/26 ... are you man enough to meet the challenge?

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Arcanum alumni planning reunion weekend

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For almost a year now, a committee from the Arcanum High School Class of 1961 has been planning for a reunion week-end coinciding with the High School’s annual Alumni Banquet. This year’s alumni will be held on Saturday, April 16th at the new High School. Shown here are the reunion committee members at a recent meeting. They are hoping many members of the AHS classes from 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961 and 1962 will make coming to the alumni a part of their schedule to also renew friendships with them who shared their days at AHS. Reservations can be made by contacting Tonya Westfall at: tonyawestfall@gmail.com

Front row sitting: Carolyn Fourman Fisher, Linda Garbig Campbell. Second Row: Ron Dearing, Albert Weimer, Leora Kuhn Minnich, Gary Snyder, Carolyn Horner Blocker, Shirley Strickler Lutz, Tim Means, Norm Etzler, Terry Mills

CRAVE - The Sweetest Lunch in Town

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Friday, February 25th, 2011, 12:00 p.m.
Brick Room, Brethren Retirement Community

Guest Speaker, Dr. Jeff Petry, Medical Director of the Samaritan Hospital Group. “Preventology: Slowing the Progression of Aging” ... Most people have two ages…a birth age and a body age. People can look and function like that of a significantly younger or older person; the difference is determined by the way they live. Dr. Jeff Petry will discuss strategies for slowing down the physical clock
and living a longer, healthier life.

Gather a few friends, or come solo and meet new friends who lovechocolate and networking as much as you do. Upscale savory lunch and plenty of decadent chocolate desserts! Please RSVP by February 22nd to 547-7655, Tickets $15

National Diabetes Fact Sheet

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The 2011, National Diabetes Fact Sheet is out from the Center for Disease Control. The fact sheet noted that diabetes currently affects 25.8 million people or 8.3% of the U.S. Population. There are 18.8 million people who have been diagnosed with diabetes, and 7 million people who are undiagnosed. Among U.S. residents aged 65 years or older, 10.9 million or 26.9% of the population had diabetes in 2010. About 1.9 million people aged 20 years or older were newly diagnosed with diabetes in 2010.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Senate Bill 5 is about to become big news in Ohio

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Here is the Legislative Summary of S.B. 5, 129th General Assembly (As Introduced), Sen. Jones:

BILL SUMMARY: States the General Assemblyʹs intent to prohibit the state and state employees and state institutions of higher education and their employees from collectively bargaining, to abolish salary schedules for public employees and instead require merit pay, and to make various other changes to the Collective Bargaining Law.

CONTENT AND OPERATION: The bill states the General Assemblyʹs intent to prohibit the state and state
employees and state institutions of higher education and their employees from collectively bargaining, to abolish salary schedules for public employees and instead require merit pay, and to make various other changes to the Collective Bargaining Law.

The full text is here.

Sen. Brown Announces More Than $38K to Bolster Firefighter Resources in Greenville

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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown today announced that $38,086 has been awarded to the Greenville Fire Department by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program helps first responders afford life-saving equipment.

“Our first responders put their lives on the line every day across Ohio,” said Brown. “To help alleviate the burden on local communities, these funds ensure that firefighters in Greenville have the resources they need to perform their jobs safely.”

AFG is an integral component in the Department of Homeland Security’s effort to strengthen the nation’s general level of preparedness and capacity to respond to fire and related dangers. AFG awards grants to departments and EMS organizations that are not directly affiliated with a hospital in an effort to enhance their ability to protect the health and safety of the public. [press release dated 2/16/11]

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

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Fewer Mandates in Education Equals Better Schools with Local Decision Making

Recently, the Ohio House of Representatives voted to pass House Bill 30, which removes many unfunded and unnecessary mandates that have been forced on our local schools. I was happy to support this legislation, which passed by a vote of 59 to 36 with bipartisan support and will move to the Senate for further action.

As passed by the House, HB 30 will remove mandates from schools that tie the hands of administrators and teachers. This was a needed change that will help schools balance quality education and budget cuts that are unavoidable. The bill will remove portions of the “Evidence-Based Model” (EBM) school funding system, which will save schools money by removing certain requirements for the reporting of annual spending plans and eliminating the School Funding Advisory Council, which added another unnecessary level of bureaucratic red tape at the Ohio Department of Education.

Perhaps the most beneficial accomplishment of this bill is that it eliminates the requirement that school districts offer all-day kindergarten and reinstates the permanent authority for most districts and community schools to charge tuition for all-day kindergarten. Local administrators know best how to spend their money, and schools should decide based on their individual financial situations if they can offer all-day kindergarten. This was a needed change that local school districts across the state asked for, and we have responded through HB 30.

It would be good practice for an administrator to prepare for future textbook needs, but it is an inappropriate government requirement, so this bill eliminates the requirement that school districts annually set aside an amount per pupil into a textbook and instructional materials fund. Overall, the passage of this bill provides for the restructuring of schools to operate on a smaller budget but provide needed education for students.

It is a fundamental principal of education to connect the school with the community, and while many schools in District 77 have excelled at this effort, the government cannot require schools to do things that the state cannot fund.

Governor Kasich has not yet unveiled his budget for Ohio, but my colleagues and I are committed to paving the way for a more responsive, accountable state government. In November, Ohioans sent a clear message when they elected a Republican to every major statewide office. These candidates ran on platforms of a better government operating within its means. Ohioans know that there is an $8 billion budget gap, and they have entrusted our leaders who they know can put Ohio back on the right track.

Opinion by Charles and Rebecca Reier: “Christian” Advice to a Rape Victim

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DDN 02 17 2011 Army review follows sex case - the investigation comes after a class-action suit claiming rapes was filed.

“Sgt. Rebekah Havrila of West Columbia, S.C., alleges in the lawsuit that during her career she was allegedly raped by an individual in a canine unit in Afghanistan in 2006. She reported the incident under a military policy that allows a rape to be reported without it triggering an investigation if the alleged victim wants it to remain confidential.” When she ran into the alleged perpetrator again at Fort Leonard Wood in 2009, she went into shock and sought assistance from a chaplain.

The base chaplain said to her, “It must have been God’s will for you to be raped” and suggested she attend church more often.”

Fortunately the Army has taken these reports seriously and Ft. Leonard Wood has reduced the number of incidents dramatically from 57 in 2009 to 28 in 2010.

The Catholic Church has also turned from sheltering offenders (thereby aiding and abetting their recidivism) to outright condemnation. Pope Benedict XVI stated in Glasgow, Scotland on September 25, 2010, “These revelations were for me a shock and a great sadness. It is difficult to understand how this perversion of the priestly ministry was possible.”

Charles E. Reier MD, Rebecca A. Reier

Office Depot wins bid to provide paper to Darke County

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Is this newsworthy? Who knows - but it's indicative of the mundane choices made by the commissioners on a regular basis. It seems at least as interesting as a horoscope ...................

IN THE MATTER OF QUOTES FOR COPY PAPER FOR COUNTY OFFICES: The Board of Commissioners received the following quotes from Asst. Clerk/Secy. After discussion etc.; Mr. Rhoades moved to approve the low quote from Office Depot, totaling $3,678.44; seconded by Mr. Stegall and all voted YEA. (Paper will be pd. by “Solid Waste” funds).


Citizen KF: Had a question regarding the purchase of copy paper for the county offices. Wondered why a quote was not submitted from any local vendors? Advised him that we buy such a big quantity that there are not any local vendors that carry that much of a supply. We have a local Staples store, but whenever a quote is given from them for copy paper, we need to directly go thru the company for better pricing.

Opinion: Newspapers' criticism of JobsOhio falls flat

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The Department of Development is currently the public agency responsible for business and industry development in Ohio. Incoming Governor John Kasich has a new proposal called "JobsOhio" which would scrap the current Department of Development and replace it with a public-private partnership where private CEOs and business leaders (not bureacrats) would drive the ship of business/industry development. JobsOhio is well on its way to becoming a reality after passing both houses of the Ohio Legislature earlier this week.

Along the way, though, members of Ohio's newspaper community have complained that the private nature of JobsOhio would keep some records from the public's view. The editorial board of the Lancaster Gazette recently commented: "We're strong believers in the importance of public records laws to allow for the people of Ohio to watch over what government does with their money." A columnist for Eaton's Register Herald wrote: "Much of their paperwork won't be seen. Records that the department and JobsOhio do not designate as public would remain closed, regardless of who has custody of them." And The Ohio Newspaper Association's current convention newsletter has an article titled "New Bill at Odds With Sunshine Laws," and the issue will clearly be front and center at their upcoming convention.

But how well has the media covered the Department of Development recently? If the media have been thoroughly and aggressively covering the Department of Development, then you - the public - should know all about it, right? So who was the last director of the Department of Development before John Kasich became governor? How many directors served in the last administration? Were there any controversies of note? Can you answer these questions?

During the prior administration, Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher originally took the job as director of the Department of Development. But Fisher resigned his post in February 2009 in order to pursue his ambition of becoming a U.S. Senator. A man named Mark Barbash was named interim director in February 2009. Barbash lasted only three months and resigned in May 2009 when it was discovered that he owed the I.R.S. over $146,000 in back taxes. Barbash's replacement, a 44-year-old veteran of the office, did not become the permanent director until September of 2009. During this period of chaos (specifically the summer of 2009), DHL closed its operations in Wilmington, Ohio, and NCR announced that it would move its headquarters from Dayton to Georgia - costing thousands of jobs to the people of the Miami Valley.

The Ohio newspaper community covered the news events above, but just barely (did you know Mark Barbash's name before reading this story?). And there was very little effort to delve into any connection between the chaos in the Department of Development and the massive loss of jobs during this same period of time.

The newspapers are now - suddenly - very interested in getting their hands on documents under the new administration. But the loss of DHL and NCR is still, to this day, a very relevant story to the people of the Miami Valley. The newspapers could still cover this story ... still request documents (they're still there) ... and find out what happened during this critical period of time. But our current print media would rather ignore the real story and focus on another hypothetical unknown story of the future. The newspapers have collectively dropped the ball on the Department of Development by failing to follow up when a legitimate scandal occurred - and their sudden interest in the aggressive pursuit of documents stinks of something other than hard news reporting.

KitchenAid cooking demonstration - Saturday, February 19th

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2011 Wavaires schedule

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The Greenville High School Wavaires are pleased to announce the 2011 schedule for their annual cantata performances.

This year’s presentation is “Extreme Praize” and will be held in local churches.

There are no admission fees for these performances and the public is cordially invited to come and support this group of young, talented performers.

2011 Wavaires Cantata Schedule:

February 27 - First Assembly of God, 7219 State Route 118, Greenville, 10:30 a.m. service
March 6 - St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 131 E. Fourth Street, Greenville, 10:30 a.m. service
March 20 - Trinity Wesleyan Church, 1400 E. Main Street, Greenville, 10:00 a.m. service
April 3 - EUM Church, 1451 Sater Street, Greenville, 6:00 p.m. service
April 17 - First Congregational Christian Church, 115 W. Fifth Street, Greenville, 10:30 a.m. service
May 1 - Ansonia Church of God, 750 S. Main Street, Ansonia, 10:30 a.m. service

Towne & Country Players Issue a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!

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What does the orphan of “Annie”, the exotic location of “The King & I”, the beastly scares of “Beauty and the Beast” and the soaring musical scores of “Miss Saigon” or “Les Miserable” have in common? They are all rolled into the 1991 Tony nominated Broadway hit, “The Secret Garden”.

Why should we care? Because Towne & Country Players is excited to announce that this magnificent, family musical based on the 1911 children’s classic, of the same name by Frances Hodgson Burnett, will official open for community theatre, the new Versailles Performing Arts Center. This magnificent theatre will also be home to the noted community theatre group, Towne & Country Players.

Versailles native, James Kelch will close his career in theatre Direction with this noted production. Another Versailles High Alumni and highly regarded area musician, David Berger will serve as the productions Musical Director. Phyllis Corbin of Greenville returns as Assistant to the Director. Angie DeMange will be the Assistant Director/Producer and Ron Asman will add his skills as the Technical Director.

A large cast and chorus are needed for this production. There are also several children’s parts. Musical experience is not required, but would be beneficial and there are numerous and important back stage and Production opportunities.

The Worch Library of Versailles will host a “Hear the Story” event on Monday, March 7th at 6:30 p.m. This is where you may learn the details of the production, meet the Directing team, volunteer for stage jobs and see the script and hear some of the music.

Auditions for this production will be held on Friday, March 18th from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. and again on Saturday, March 19th from 12:00 until 3:00 p.m. in the Versailles High School Music Room. You need to enter through door 10 on the west side near the Performing Arts Center (the doors are clearly marked). Please prepare a short piece of music of your choice.

Production dates for “The Secret Garden” are June 22, 23, 24, 25, at 7:30 p.m. and June 26, at 2:00 and 7:30 p.m.

Two teens plead guilty to July 16 arson in downtown Greenville

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Thanks to Steve Baker for the video ...

Greenville Rotary meeting report - February 8th

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Rita McCans, President and Mike Stegall
The Greenville Rotary Club met Tuesday, February 8, 2011 at the Chestnut Village Community Center of the Brethren Retirement Community with 29 members and 5 guests in attendance.

Following lunch at Noon, the club enjoyed hearing the program speaker, Mike Stegall, Darke County Commissioner. He shared that he has been on the job for 39 days and stated that he, and other commissioners will have a weekly column on the state of the county as well as be on WTGR monthly to answer questions. Mike shared some of his life quotes and how they apply to his new job. He also stated that his top two agenda items are Economic Development and balancing the budget. Mike was asked what needs to shift in Darke County in order for us to see growth. He stated that without a doubt, it is our attitudes. There needs to be less negativity and more positive thinking!

Anyone interest in becoming a member of the Greenville Rotary Club may contact the Club Secretary, Christy Baker at 937-548-3777 or by email at cbaker@ymcadarkecounty.org; or the Club Treasurer, Diane Shuff at 937-548-6181 or by email at dshuff@myfsbdirect.com. You may also obtain further information on our blog at http://darkecountyview.com/greenvillerotary/.

Help Wanted: The Newcan Co. in Greenville

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The Newcan Co. in Greenville will be hiring two mechanics. You must have press experience and metal forming/stamping is a plus. If you meet these requirements please visit The Job and Family Service office and fill out an application. These will be full time and long term positions.

UPDATE: I wanted to tell you thank you for placing the help wanted ad on Darke Journal. We had contacted the unemployment office when we started our search and after 2 weeks they still weren’t able to supply us with a single resume. Within 4 hours after it was on Darke Journal we got [several] very qualified applicants.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Greenville Car Wash offers Reward (Update: criminals arrested)

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Thank you to our local low life thefts and vandals the Dog Wash is Temporarily Out of Service. Anyone who has information that could help in putting these low lives away please contact the local authorities. A monetary reward will be given to anyone who assist in bring charges and locking up the three individuals who vandalized and destroyed our dog wash. This type of vandalism and theft needs to stop and all of the community needs to put forth the effort to help get it stopped. Remember the smallest thing that appears just not right if reported could possible help to prevent further incident of this nature.



UPDATE: Thank you to all who care! They did arrest two of the individuals today on an outstanding warrant and the third has been identified. It does give me hope that maybe this crap will stop! The dog wash should be back up and operating by week end with a temporary replace machine.

Thank you, Greenville Car Wash, John and Stephanie Baumgardner

UPDATE 2: The alleged criminals (who are presumed innocent even though they were caught on videotape) are: Jesse Fitzwater, Michael Flatter, and Corey Smith.

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