2nd Annual Dave’s Diggity Dog Festival on Garst Museum Lawn

Saturday, October 1st from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm – Rain or Shine!

“Have you heard the good news? Word has it that there’s a festival in town and it’s for THE DOGS!” We’re bringing the community together to celebrate our 4 legged friends in a FREE, fun, family-filled environment! So get out of the doghouse folks & bring a lawn chair and your canine for a barking good time!

We start our morning off with coffee & breakfast, doggie calisthenics by Russell Rex & a mile dog walk through Greenville City Park followed by dog contests. Dog Contest Judges are Mayor Bowers, Dave Knapp of Dave Knapp Ford, Judge Julie Monnin, Clay Johnson (Director of Garst Museum) & Shannon Vannatta of Smoke Stack BBQ. See schedule below for contest categories.

There will be a $12.00 entry fee onsite for all doggies that would like to participate in the dog walk, dog games, dog contests & wiener dog races (includes FREE doggie bags for first 100 dogs)! Wiener dog races will be divided by age. All winners receive gift bags & ribbons! You & your canine can win exciting raffle drawings throughout the day from Greenville’s local businesses!

All day flyball & disc demos by Russell Rex with Extreme Insanity Dog Sports & all day Greenville Area Dog Club demos. Special appearances by Mercer County & Tipp City K-9 Units.

Come hungry! We’re offering yummy food from Smoke Stack BBQ, Potato Tornados & More, All in a Cart Hot Dogs & the Darke County Humane Society Food Trailer. There will be plenty of activities for the kids. We’ll have doggie caricature artists, face painting, moon bounces & a fingerprinting station by the Greenville Police Department.

A few of our doggie vendors are Keller Animal Feeds & Needs, Jeannie’s Pooch Parlor, Darke County Humane Society with Adoptable Pets, Friends of the Animal Shelter, Darke County Red Cross CPR, Support Military Working Dogs, Cancer Association of Darke County, Izzy Photos & Design, Pet Therapy, Tiers of Joy – Diaper Cakes & More.

BEAR’S MILL FALL OPEN HOUSE OCTOBER 1 AND 2

The Friends of Bear’s Mill will be holding their annual Legendary Fall Open House on Saturday, October 1 and Sunday, October 2 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. each day. The event will include free guided tours and grinding demonstrations by Master Miller Terry at 12:00, 2:00 and 4:00 both days. Visitors will be entertained with live music by local artists Dankworth & Hobbs on Saturday from 1:00 to 4:00, Robert Behringer playing the Native American Flute on Sunday from 11:00 to 12:30 and Ron Marshall of Versailles playing guitar and singing familiar songs from 1:00 to 4:00 on Sunday. This event is free to the public. Donations are greatly appreciated.

Janet Wheelock Balsbaugh, author of the book, “Home-Style Gluten Free and Dairy Free Cookbook,” will be signing her books Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. Jim Heiser, an artist that currently displays and sells his birch bark and pine needle baskets in the Mill Store will be demonstrating his craft onsite on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Additionally, at the close of business on Sunday, a name will be drawn for the winner of the one of a kind, hand-hooked wool rug that is being raffled as fundraiser for the Friends of Bear’s Mill. Tickets are available now thru the open house weekend at $1 each or 6 for $5. The framed rug was commissioned by Angie Ditmer of Plain and Simple Cabin and celebrates the architecture of the Mill and its beautiful surroundings.

“The mission of the Friends of Bear’s Mill is to provide a rich cultural experience and community-oriented events including educational tours, demonstrations and nature walks while preserving the Mill’s historical significance and natural beauty,” said Outreach Manager Merri Niekamp. “This is a fun, family-oriented event that appeals to young and old alike. Bear’s Mill offers a beautiful fall setting that encourages the community to come out and celebrate the changing of the seasons with nature... take in some history, grab a bowl of delicious bean soup with cornbread, perch on a straw bale and relax to some local entertainment,” Ms. Niekamp concluded.

In addition to stoneground flours and meals, the Mill Store offers kitchen and gourmet goods as well as Boston Stoker Coffees and Bakehouse Breads. Original pottery by the Bear’s Mill potters, home décor, giftware and women’s accessories are also for available for sale. The gallery at Bear’s Mill will feature the October artists for the Art at the Mill Series. Included will be the flatware sculptures by Gary Hovey of New Knoxville as well as figurative oil portraits by his son David Hovey. “Unique shopping items are coming in daily,” stated Julie Clark, Retail Manager. “And of course we will have the traditional pumpkins, gourds and bittersweet that everyone looks forward to displaying in celebration of the autumn season,” she explained.

Bear’s Mill, a working national landmark, is operated by the Friends of Bear’s Mill, a non-profit organization. Bear’s Mill is located at 6450 Arcanum-Bear’s Mill Road about 5 miles east of Greenville. For more information, call 937-548-5112 or visit www.bearsmill.com.

Week 6 of the High School Football Pick 'em

DEADLINE FOR WEEK 6 PICKS IS FRIDAY AT 5:00 PM

We're already beginning the second half of the regular season (remember when we were counting down to the fair? What a distant memory!). Here are this week's games:

• Bradford @ Tri County North (Tiebreaker #1)
• Versailles vs Delphos St John's (Tiebreaker #2)
• Ansonia vs Arcanum
• Mississinawa@ National Trail
• Greenville @ Bishop Watterson

Simply email darkejournal@gmail.com with the subject "week 6." 

List the team you think will win, as well as your prediction for the total scores for each of the tiebreaker games.

The person who picks the most games correctly will win a free shirt of their choice from Cavalier Clothing (who has an amazing selection of designs for schools all over the county), along with the illustrious prize of bragging rights. In the event of a tie, the winner will be the one with the closest total score of tiebreaker #1. In the freak event that there is still a tie, the closest total score in tiebreaker #2 will win (an individual may only win one shirt per season). The winner will be announced the weekend after the games. Entries MUST be received no later than 5:00pm on Friday!

Good luck, and get your picks in early!

Greenville CROP Walk

This year the Greenville CROP Walk will be Sunday, October 9th in the Greenville City Park. Registration for the walk will be at 1:30 pm and the walk will start at 2:00 p.m. The meeting place will be at shelter #3. 25% of all the proceeds will go to organizations in darke county. We walk because they walk night and day to get their water when all we do walk to our faucet. Water is life for them. The walk is free.

Our goal to raise this year is $10,000. Will you walk?

Female Chocolate Lab Roams North Side of Greenville

For the past 3 months there has been a young female chocolate lab that has been seen by many Greenville residents that live on the northern end of town. Everywhere from North Park behind Kroger to the Greenville City Park this lost girl has been roaming. Live traps have been set by the dog pound in multiple locations but she is so scared of people that she refuses to go in them. When people to approach her she takes off running. Winter is on the way and we are desperately trying to catch her!!! She looks to still be young and deserves a home that will offer the love and care she deserves.

Over the last week her sightings have suddenly become less and less. There are multiple families who would love to offer her a home but we are in need of help in trying to catch/locate her for this to be possible. If at any time you do see her please do not chase her but merely make note of the time and location that she was seen. If you do happen to see her please contact us with the info at:

lab45331@gmail.com

Here are a few pictures of her....




Thank you for all of your help!!!

GREENVILLE BOYS AND GIRLS BASKETBALL RESERVE SEA TS SALE

GREENVILLE BOYS AND GIRLS BASKETBALL

RESERVE SEA TS SALE

WHEN: Monday, October 24*“ 7PM TO 8PM

WHERE: Greenville Athletic Department Office
(Main Entrance to High School)

POLICY: Each individual will be permitted to purchase TWO
(2) RESERVED SEATS. This will be done on a first come, first
serve basis. If seats are still available after everyone in line has been served, those individuals wishing to purchase additional seats will be able to do so.

• In addition, a reserve seat ticket holder will have first rights to those seats the following basketball season as well (same as the football reserve seat policy).
  

PRICE:

• Girls Basketball $100 per seat
• Boys Basketball $100 per seat
• Girls and Boys Basketball S175 per seat (Combo Package)

DCCA PRESENTS BLUEGRASS STARS DAILEY AND VINCENT

Darke County Center for the Arts will open its 2011-2012 Artists Series season on Saturday, October 15 by presenting award-winning bluegrass artists Dailey and Vincent at Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall in Greenville. A seven-piece band fronted by Jamie Dailey and Darrin Vincent, the group's most recent album, Dailey and Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers, has won kudos from music critics as well as accolades from fans of many musical genres. Their show starts at 8 p.m.

“This group is loaded with talent; Jamie Dailey's sweet pure tenor and Darrin Vincent's seamless harmonies are enhanced by the amazing skills of an incredibly skilled backup band, all of whom can also do outstanding individual solo work,” said DCCA Artistic Director Keith Rawlins. “Their show, which includes gospel tunes, acoustic country, hardcore bluegrass, and lots of humor, is simply awesome; DCCA is thrilled to offer our community the opportunity to enjoy these bluegrass superstars,” Mr. Rawlins concluded.

Jamie Dailey sang and played with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver for several years; Darrin Vincent, who got his start with his family's band which also included his sister Rhonda, was for ten years a member of Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder. Their bandmates include Christian Davis on guitar and bass vocals, Joe Dean, Jr. playing banjo and guitar as well as singing bass, mandolin and guitar player Jeff Parker who also sings harmony, and master fiddler Jesse Stockman.

Darke County Center for the Arts receives financial support from Harry D. and Esther Stephens Memorial, Ketrow Foundation, and the Lydia E. Schaurer Memorial Trust Fund. Operating support is also provided by Ohio Arts Council, the state agency that supports public program in the arts.

Tickets for the Dailey and Vincent Show are $25, and can be reserved by contacting DCCA at 937-547-0908 or dcca@centerforarts.net. Tickets will also be available at the door if any remain by showtime.

Health Department to Offer Flu Shots at the Youth Building on October 18

The Darke County Health Department Walk-In Clinic will be closed Tuesday October 18. However, the Nursing staff will be giving Flu Shots from 8a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Darke County Fairgrounds Youth Building, while supplies last. Vaccination cost is $20. Traditional Medicare, Medicaid, and cash or check will be accepted. Sorry, no HMO’s. Pneumonia vaccine will also be offered at this time for interested persons. Annual Influenza vaccination is recommended for all persons ages 6 months and older. The Darke County Health Department will resume their usual Walk-In Clinic on Tuesday October 25. Please call (937) 548-4196 with any questions.

BASF SUPPORTS ARTS IN EDUCATION

BASF has recently donated funds to sponsor Darke County Center for the Arts’ 2011-2012 Arts in Education program. “BASF has been a great supporter of DCCA for many years; their commitment to enhance the quality of life in our community through the arts is very much appreciated,” stated Executive Director Julie Strait. BASF is the world’s leading chemical company. The Greenville, Ohio plant produces coatings for the automotive industry as well as resins for undercoating on vehicles.

Darke County Center for the Arts presents performing artists to students at all grade levels in Darke County and Greenville City Schools during the school year through the Arts In Education program. Lyle Cogen visited students in grades 4 through 6 the week of September 12 with her program Sticks and Stones, a message on recognizing and dealing with bullying in schools. Kuniko Yamamoto artfully shared the culture, Masks, Mime, and Music of Japan with students in grades K-3 the week of September 26. Robert Post will educate, entertain, and inspire creativity with his program Post Comedy Theatre for High School students the week of October 17th, as well as Junior High school students on December 7 & 8.

During the past season Darke County Center for the Arts served over 11,000 youth and adults through various activities. Sponsorships for Arts In Education and other DCCA programs are still available. For more information contact Julie Strait at 937-547-0908, Keith Rawlins at 937-564-1883, or refer to DCCA’s website at www.centerforarts.net.

EVERY DROP COUNTS BLOOD DRIVES

DARKE COUNTY, OH — (September 29, 2010) Community Blood Center (CBC) “Blood Donor Every Blood Drop Counts” blood drives offer donors the opportunity to donate blood and make a difference in someone’s life. Every drop does count when you donate, and when you donate one pint of blood you can help to save up to three lives!

Everyone who registers to donate during “Blood Donor Every Drop Counts” October 3-15 will receive a free stoneware mug.

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

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

Eagles says ‘Thank You’ to members

Greenville Eagles 2177 held its annual “Thank You” picnic for members recently at beautiful Eagles Shade Road Park to show appreciation for their support in a variety of community activities throughout the year.

The most volunteer intensive event sponsored by FOE 2177 is the Annual Independence Day Celebration, in which more than 3,000 area residents and visitors enjoyed two days of music and family events, culminating in the largest fireworks celebration in the area.

“It could not have been done without the help of our members,” said Steffanie Baker, Worthy President. “Aerie and Auxiliary volunteers put in hundreds of hours preparing for and hosting the event,” she added.

The member picnic is one of several annual events the Lodge sponsors for its membership, providing free food and beverages for an afternoon of fellowship. Others include a Thanksgiving Dinner for members with no immediate families in the area, plus an annual Christmas Party. Aerie officers also host an annual Christmas Party for its employees, and the Lodge brings Santa in from the North Pole once a year to hand out toys and candy to member children and grandchildren.

Through the support of Lodge membership, the Eagles is able to provide scholarship support to member children and grandchildren and make donations to a variety of worthy organizations, such as the Darke County Cancer Association, Shriners Burn Hospitals, Darke County Humane Society and others.

Adults over 21 can apply for membership at the downtown Lodge on Third Street. The Eagles is open to the public daily until 1:30 p.m. for breakfast and lunch.

Annual Fall Colors Float!

Join Darke County Parks for the last float of the year! Crisp air, islands to explore and the beginnings of changing leaf colors makes this float an annual favorite. Saturday, October 8th at 2 pm, meet at the Nature Center at Shawnee Prairie Preserve, 4267 St. Rt. 502 West, and we will carpool up to Lake Loramie for a delightful afternoon float. Cost is $10 per person. Call the Nature Center today at 937.548.0165 to reserve a canoe for two or solo a kayak. Space is extremely limited!

For more information on this and other programs, please visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org

Franklin Monroe Presents The Great Wall of Art

Franklin Monroe Presents……….. 

The Great Wall of Art

Our new school will have a ceramic tile wall on the inside concession stand area that features artwork created last spring by our K–12 families, alumni, community members etc.

Do you want to be a part of history? Do you wish you had purchased or shared the opportunity with another community member?

Due to high demands we are selling the tiles again!

You can purchase and design your own 4"x4" tile for just $25.00. It will then be laid with all the others.

Artwork must be done on the paper provided with markers, crayons, colored pencils or computer. Decorate the entire open space on the paper.

Need an idea? Tiles could involve the family or members name, graduation date, Jet spirit, music, art, sport-related drawings or just a colorful design. Make it be bright, bold, colorful and creative. Tiles that were done last spring are now being displayed in the show case near the Elem. Art room before they are laid on the wall.

Due date:     October 20^th, at 3:00 p.m.

We are sorry but NO late orders can be accepted due to the strict time table for processing and wall development.

Payment:     $25.00 must accompany artwork

*Make checks payable to “FM Elementary”

Artist’s Name:  ___________________________________

Phone:  __________________________

Spread the word to others in the community!

Additional papers may be picked up in the FM Elementary office.

Questions can be directed to the Elem. at (937) 947-1327

MURDER MYSTERY AUDITIONS

Darke County Civic Theater just finished another successful production and is currently preparing for the next. A murder mystery/dinner theater will be held at Montage Cafe on November 4th and 5th. Details on this production will soon be posted in this publication. To prepare for this mystery we will be conducting auditions to fill the cast of suspects. Auditions will be held Monday, October 3rd at a yet to be determined location. If you are interested in trying out, you may show up any time between 6:00 and 8:00pm. This audition will consist of cold readings along with improv games. The murder mystery is somewhat scripted but also requires a lot of improv from the actors. If you would like more information please contact Dane Leeper, director at 937-337-2265.

Please visit our web site for more information on our fine group; www.darkecountycivictheater.org

Serve Darke County - October 1

Serve Darke County is a fundraising event held by Youth for Christ that will take place on October 1 this year. Picture “WalkAmerica” or “Race for the Cure.” Serve DC is a pledge event where participants raise $25 or more to help YFC benefit teenagers. This year we expect more than 200 people of all ages to participate and raise more than $12,000.

Participants will work in teams to complete a wide variety of community service projects all throughout the county. These projects will encourage residents in need and beautify public lands and facilities.

Everyone involved receives a “Serve” t-shirt and water bottle and is invited to attend a celebration lunch where great door prizes will be given away. Those who raise the most money will get awesome gifts in return and everyone receives the satisfaction that comes from serving others and taking part in a job well done. There is also a $250 prize for the church whose teams raise the most money.

Check out the flyer below and the sample list of projects that are being undertaken this year. Contact office@yfcmiamivalley.org for more information on how you can get involved.

Click on the images to enlarge in a new tab.

Arcanum Fire Department Will Host Fire Prevention & Public Safety Day

The Arcanum Fire Department will be hosting its third annual Fire Prevention & Public Safety Day on Saturday, October 1st, 2011. The activities will take place at the Arcanum Fire Department which is located at 206 S Main Street in Arcanum.

The third annual Fire Prevention & Public Safety Day will feature dozens of activities. The day will begin with a parade at 11:30 AM which will begin at the new Arcanum School. The parade will travel down Main Street before ending at the Arcanum Fire Department.

The first activities to take place include fire truck rides for those kids who are interested in seeing what it is like to ride in a fire truck. A smoke trailer will also be on site to simulate what occurs during house fires.

Later in the day games, including fire gear races, tug of war and bucket races will take place. Careflight will also be landing and will give a demonstration showing off their helicopter!

Prizes will be given out all day to those children and kids in attendance. Prize registration will begin at 12:00 PM. There will be some prizes for the parents too! Late in the afternoon, cake walks will take place in the Arcanum Fire Department

In addition to Fire Prevention and Public Safety Day activities, the Arcanum Fire Department has partnered with the Darke County Solid Waste Management District to participate in a 9-volt battery exchange. The Darke County Solid Waste Management District along with the Arcanum Fire Department are working to get the word out on a simple life-saving tip, “Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries.” Replacing home smoke detector batteries is a small and easy step that can mean the difference between life and death.

More Than Just Great Legs!

We all know the nursery rhyme, but what else do we know about itsy-bitsy spiders? Did you know that they can make silk stronger than steel, can jump 20 times their body length and they can fly thousands of miles in the air? Join a Naturalist at Shawnee Prairie Preserve Nature Center on Thursday, October 13 at 6pm to find out more about these arachnids. We’ll learn all about the common spiders in our area and then hit the trails to see what we can discover! This program is FREE! Please call the Nature Center to pre-register at 937-548-0165.

For more information on this and other programs offered by the Darke County Parks, please visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org

Downtown Holds Bash For OSU vs Nebraska

Darke County OSU Alumni members enjoying the Downtown Buckeye Bash last year

Main Street Greenville and Darke County OSU Alumni are pleased to announce the return of the Downtown Buckeye Bash on Saturday, October 8 from 6:00-11:00 pm. This very special downtown event takes place behind the Palace Building on East Fifth Street under a scarlet and gray big top!

This second annual event is geared for the OSU and Greenville fan alike. Activities and fun for all ages are being planned. Entry to the event is on East Fifth Street. Upon entering you can purchase tickets at 50 a piece that will be used for purchasing Kids activities are scheduled from 6:00-9:00 pm, Chili Cook-Off of downtown restaurants begins at 7:00 pm until Half Time of the OSU vs. Nebraska football game, which will be presented on numerous big screen televisions at the event. Individuals and families can show their Buckeye spirit in the Best Dressed Buckeye Contest during Half Time.

The Downtown Buckeye Bash highlights five of our downtown businesses with the Taste of Downtown from 6:00-11:00 pm. Event goers can sample from an array of food offerings from these businesses then head over the beer tent to quench their thirst. The Downtown Buckeye Bash was established to bring people downtown for a fun safe family friendly event. The partnership between Main Street Greenville and Darke County OSU Alumni is a natural fit for presenting this event to the community. All proceeds raised by the bash support both organizations programs, states event chair, Brian Griesdorn.

Another attraction to the event includes a Reverse Raffle. Tickets are on sale now for $5 with a chance to win $500. Only 200 tickets are being sold for this raffle whose winner is the last ticket drawn. The drawing begins at 6:30 pm and will last until the end of the event. Contact Main Street Greenville at 937.548.4998 for tickets.

Special thanks to major event sponsors Readmores Hallmark and Second National Bank.

Have fun on us! Main Street Greenville is currently promoting a special incentive for the Downtown Buckeye Bash to new supporters of their downtownmatters! Initiative. Go to www.downtowngreenville.org and click on the downtownmatters! logo to become a supporter. Depending on what level you join at determines the amount of tickets Main Street Greenville gives you to use while at the Downtown Buckeye Bash. Offer available now until October 4.
The downtownmatters! initiative is the sole funding drive and volunteerism solicitation vehicle for Main Street Greenville. A fundamental goal of the annual campaign is to bring focus to all individuals and respective segments who play a critical role in creating a downtown that matters; the underlining purpose and service Main Street Greenville works to achieve. Acting together; individual community members, businesses, organizations and government parties become the key investors of a sustaining and impactful Downtown Greenville that establishes a standard of living and quality of life we want to reflect and enjoy...to the end of a downtownmatters! Since it is Our Stories. Our Place. Our Future. For more information on the downtownmatters!! initiative or Main Street Greenville contact Amber Schmerge at 937-548-4998.

Tri-Village School Fair Baking Contest

The Tri-Village School Fair committee is a sponsoring a baking contest on Saturday, October 8th, 2011. The categories are: PK through 6th grade and 7th grade through 12th-Cookies, Cupcakes and Decorated Cupcakes. The adult divisions will include-Pies, Cookies, Cupcakes, Decorated Cupcakes and Decorated Cakes.

Baked goods will be accepted in the high school gym from 9:00 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. Saturday. Prizes are donated by Kitchen Aid, Wal-Mart and the School Fair Committee. If you have any questions please contact Monyca Schlechty at 548-0725.

Darke County Senior Scribes… Classic Touch headlines Scribes fundraiser

Classic Touch performance at the recent
Darke County Fair, by Elaine Bailey.

Darke County Senior Scribes will be holding a fundraiser dinner and show on Oct. 8. Featured entertainment is Classic Touch, local artists who take their audience back in time with 50’s and 60’s music.

The mother-daughter-in-law team, Nancy and Amanda Livingston, performed recently at the Darke County Fair and were featured performers for the Senior Scribes in 2010.

Word has it that Dr. Delbert Blickenstaff, MD. Ret., and longtime local singer and actor will do a cameo appearance.

The event will be held at the Christian Lighthouse Center. Senior Scribes, with the help of the Greenville High School Key Club, will serve a Spaghetti Dinner with the trimmings at 6:30. The show begins at 7:30.

Tickets are $8 individual, $15 couple, and seating is limited to 150. Profits will go into the Senior Scribes Scholarship Fund to help Darke County high school seniors in a communications-related field meet their college expenses.

League of Women Voters Planning "Meet the Candidates" Nights

Darke County League of Women Voters (LWV) Candidates’ Night committee met recently to kick off its upcoming “Meet the Candidates” nights. This year the group will be sponsoring an event in both Greenville (October 24) and Arcanum (October 17). Please watch for further details. Members are (L to R): Committee Chair Eileen Litchfield, Becky Reier, Mary Bankson, Anne Vehre, LWV Co Chair Karen Brooks and Marie Boas. (L. Bliss Picture)

We NEED Volunteers for our Fall Sharathon!! (Joy FM)

Can you believe Sharathon starts next week? We really need volunteers! Have you signed up or can you add another day to help? Call us at 1-877-335-4569 and sign up today!! Currently we have the following time slots open for answering the phones:

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

8-10 a.m. 1 opening)

5-7 p.m. (2 openings)

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

6-8 a.m. (1 opening)

8-10 a.m. (1 opening)

3-5 p.m. (2 openings)

5-7 p.m. (1 opening)

Thursday, October 6, 2011

8-10 a.m. (2 openings)

3-5 p.m. (2 openings)

Friday, October 7, 2011

6-8 a.m. (1 opening)

8-10 a.m. (2 openings)

3-5 p.m. (2 openings)

5-7 p.m. (2 openings)

For meals we have the following times open:

(lunch would need to be here by 11:30 a.m. and dinner by 4:30 p.m.) It can be as basic as sloppy joe's and chips and would need to feed 8-10 people.

Tuesday, Thursday for lunch.
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday for dinner.

Call us at 1-877-335-4569 or email office@889joyfm.com today to volunteer!!

Beer Tasting This Saturday at Montage Cafe

Bauer Joins State of the Heart Hospice as Executive Director and CEO

State of the Heart Hospice has announced the appointment of Ted Bauer as the non-profit agency’s Executive Director and CEO. A native of the Lima area, Bauer was employed by Leading Age Ohio for the past five years. Leading Age Ohio is a non-profit organization which advocates for senior citizen services in long term care, home health and hospices. He began his duties with State of the Heart on September 13. He succeeds Tammy Fox who resigned in May of this year after serving seven years as executive director.

“Ted brings a unique set of skills and professional expertise to State of the Heart Hospice,” stated Lisa Gasper, president, State of the Heart board of trustees. “State of the Heart, just as other health care providers, faces challenging financial times. With his years of background in health care management, Ted is very qualified to lead our agency in the future.” In his previous positions in health care, he has had excellent success in financial improvements for agencies and expanding growth in market served, Gasper pointed out.

A graduate of The Ohio State University, Bauer has served in senior management positions with home health systems as well as durable medical equipment companies. Leading Age Ohio was formerly called Association of Ohio Philanthropic Housing & Services for the Aging. He was director of Member Value and the AOPHA Service Corporation while employed with Leading Age Ohio.

Juvenile Court upgrades security at no cost to Darke County taxpayers

The Darke County Juvenile Court uses a metal detector to scan parties before entering the courtroom. Until recently, the court was using a mostly-obselete 1997 Sentry AT metal detector. Juvenile Court bailiff Tom Fourman contacted Ohio Supreme Court Security Services Officer Stephanie Tansill about the situation. Ms. Tansill made inquiries around the state and learned of a newer model that would soon be available in Hocking County.

A Metor 200 had originally been purchased for Franklin County through a Homeland Security grant. Franklin County no longer needed the metal detector and sent it to Hocking County for extra security during a high-profile trial. When the case ended, the metal detector was available to the first county to claim it, and Mr. Fourman made arrangements to pick it up.

Ms. Tansill recently visited the Juvenile Court to calibrate the new metal detector (Tansill and Fourman are in the photo to the right). Ms. Tansill took the old metal detector with her for transport as it was claimed by one of the courts in Jackson, Ohio. The cost of a new metal detector is between $4,000 and $5,000.

RED LETTER DAY FOR RED CORD HONOR GRADUATES NUMBERS SOAR AS STUDENTS SEEK COMMUNITY SERVICE ACHIEVEMENTS

DAYTON, Ohio – The Community Blood Center (CBC) is again joining parents and educators in honoring high school seniors committed to helping others through the gift of life. The CBC Red Cord Honor Program is entering its third year and a record number of participants are expected to earn the Red Cord by the time graduation arrives next spring.

Last year more than 1700 high school seniors from CBC’s 15-county service area earned Red Cord distinction by registering to donate at least three times during their high school careers.
CBC launched the Red Cord Honor Program in 2009 with 12 area schools enrolled in the pilot program. By the end of the school year 235 graduates from eight schools had earned the honor.

In the 2010-2011 school year the number of Red Cord recipients soared to 1700, representing 98 high schools across CBC’s 15-county region, all of which hosted multiple blood drives.
CBC is grateful to parents for the consent for their children to donate, and for the cooperation of educators at participating schools. Both are essential to student success in the Red Cord Honor Program.

Here are the requirements for the Red Cord Honor Program:

• Students are enrolled when they register to donate blood at their Red Cord Honor Program participating high school blood drive.
• Students must register to donate three or more times during their high school careers.
• Students may donate at their Red Cord Honor Program participating high school blood drive, any CBC community blood drive, or at any one of our CBC branch locations to qualify for a Red Cord.

Blood donation requirements: Donors are required to provide a photo ID that includes their full name. Past CBC donors are also asked to bring their CBC donor ID card. Donors must be at least 16 years of age (16 years old with parental consent: form available at www.givingblood.org or at CBC branch & blood drive locations), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in good physical health. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) changes blood donor eligibility guidelines periodically. Individuals with eligibility questions are invited to email canidonate@cbccts.org or call 1(800)388-GIVE. Make an appointment at www.DonorTime.com.

Community Blood Center/Community Tissue Services® is an independent, not-for-profit organization. Community Blood Center provides blood products to 24 hospitals within a 15-county service area in the Miami (Ohio) and Whitewater (Indiana) Valleys. For more information about Community Blood Center/Community Tissue Services®, visit www.givingblood.org.

State of the Heart Hospice Helps Employees Deal With Loss in the Work Place

Marlene Black, Bereavement Specialist for State of the Heart

The recent situation was a unique one for State of the Heart Hospice: An employee of an Indiana company had died suddenly, leaving a close-knit work force grieving for their co-worker of 17 years. State of the Heart was called upon to help with grief support for the firm in Portland, Indiana.

“I realized we had a need, but I did not know who to call for help,” explained Crystal Kahut, Human Resource Specialist for the Joyce-Dayton Corporation which has offices in Dayton, Clayton and Portland. “We are a very close, family-oriented company, and our employees view one another as more than a co-worker.”

Kahut immediately began her search for grief support and was soon directed to State of the Heart Hospice and Marlene Black, Bereavement Specialist for the agency. With offices in Portland, Greenville and Coldwater, State of the Heart cares for families and patients in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness.

“I was impressed with how quickly the company reacted in this situation,” Black said. Within a short time, Black and Darlene Pearson, a State of the Heart Social Worker who helps with grief support went to the company and spent time talking with those who were distressed about the sudden loss of a fellow employee. Their time spent with those at the company was at no cost to Joyce-Dayton.

St. Henry blood donor grabs golden ticket, wins jeep

DAN LANGE PLAYS IT COOL TO THE END IN CBC JEEP PATRIOT DRAWING

DAYTON, Ohio – Dan Lange of St. Henry kept a stone-cold poker face to the very end. If he was excited, anxious or even hopeful, he never showed his hand. He was the only Top 10 Finalist in the Community Blood Center (CBC) Jeep Patriot drawing who refused to speculate about good fortune, insisting “I haven’t won anything yet”… until he did.

Lange was the first finalist to pick his envelope. He chose one from the middle of the pile. One by one, all 10 took an envelope until the table was empty, then waited for the countdown to rip them open. But only Lange’s held the “golden ticket” with the inscription “winner.” True to form, he was “Cool Hand Dan” up until the moment of truth.

“I wasn’t going to open it right away,” he said, still beaming with satisfaction. “I was going to let everyone else go first. They said nine of the envelopes would have a silver ticket, but mine was white. I pulled it out, and on the other side… it was gold. I said ‘Oh my goodness!’”

After a hug and kiss from his joyful wife Jody, Lange went back to his poker face, saying he would give the Jeep to his 21-year old son Dylan. But when he pressed, he broke a smile and said “No!” He then went down the line of finalists, shaking hands with everyone. Only Lange was the Jeep winner, but they all shared the bond of being blood donors.

COMMUNITY BLOOD CENTER RECOGINIZES DARKE COUNTY BLOOD DONOR MILESTONES FOR JULY & AUGUST

DARKE COUNTY, OH — (September 27, 2011) Community Blood Center (CBC) Community Blood Center congratulates all of the following donors for reaching their milestones. Thanks to the generosity of all donors many lives have been saved.

Donors are recognized for their Life Time Donations (LTD) Milestones

5 LTD
Corey Arnold, Abigail Barlage, Jeffrey Beavins, Sherri Beisner, Rachael Brandenburg, Samuel Capasso, Fredde Dean, Bernice Fosberg, Linda Harshbarger, Mark Howell, Helen Hudson, Robert Hull, Lisa Hummel, Joseph Hunt, Ashleigh Huskey, Brittany Kemper, Dane Leeper, Jamie Magoto, James McClurg, Rodney McGuire, Kelli Moore, Fonda Newbauer, Carol O’Connor, Tammy Phillips, Matthew Pitsenbarger, Tyler Potter, John Riegle, Jan Riley, Hideyuki Sasaki, Amber Seibert, Kreg Shane, Rita Sharp, Rebecca Shreffler, Shane Stachler, Mary Stickel, Harold Stockslager, Connie Stollar, Kami Stump, Nicole Swallow, Luke Thompson, Sorona Verneman, David Warner, Abigail Wombolt

10 LTD
Eric Augustine, Jason Bradshaw, Tracey Bruns, Patrick Buschur, Carl Collins, Kyle Emrick, Bill Fraley, Kristen Gosnell, Brenda Hole, Matt Kingrey, Kristen Leese, Deborah Loewer, Mackenzie Marker, Donna Monnier, Tammy Popper, Austin Rhoades, Ronny Richards, Andrew Schwartz, Monty Stump, Kevin Subler, Alexia Sykes, Darrell Thayer, Benjamin Thompson, Chuck Willcox

20 LTD
David Baerwald, James Buschur, Robert Daugherty, William Bulin, Jeremy Durbin, Eric Fee, Ben Forthofer, MaryAnne Furlong, Jeremy Hiestand, Gary Hudson, Timothy Miller, David Morris, Angela Penny

25 LTD
Kent Blocher, Stephen Blocher, Darla Heckler, Sharon Pepiot, J.J. Riffell, Adam Schwartz, Kenneth Stoltz, Scott Thomas, Robert Trocano

WJYW – Joy FM Holds Fall Sharathon

WJYW – Joy-FM (88.9, 94.5 and 97.7 in Richmond, IN) – will be holding its Fall Sharathon October 4-7, from 6AM – 7 PM each day. Joy-FM airs contemporary Christian music 24 hours a day from it’s Union City studios. The non-profit, non-commercial station will be raising their budget to operate over the next 6 months.

“Our goal of $75,000 is a relatively small amount to operate a 24 hour station for 6 months” noted station manager, Dan Franks. He added “since we’re a non-profit (501c3) ministry, all of the donations we receive are tax deductible.”

Joy-FM has been on the air for over 11 years now, and is owned by the Positive Radio Group based in Blacksburg, Virginia. The station’s coverage area ranges from Richmond, Indiana to Celina, Ohio.

2nd Annual Dave’s Diggity DOG Festival - Saturday, Oct. 1st from 10:00am - 4:00pm

WHAT: 2nd Annual Dave’s Diggity DOG Festival
WHERE: Greenville's Garst Museum Lawn (205 N. Broadway)
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 1st from 10:00am - 4:00pm
HOW MUCH: FREE TO THE PUBLIC!


It's Almost Here! First 100 dogs to register receive a FREE Doggie Bag! "Bring your family, your canines & your lawn chair and sit back for a fun filled day!" Everyone is Welcome! We're kicking off our community festival with a 1 mile dog walk through the City Park, followed by juried dog contests. Categories with prizes awarded: Best of Show, Best Costume, Best Owner Doggie Look-A-Like, Best Tail, Best Markings, Cutest, Best Eyes & Best Legs. We'll have wiener dog races, K9 unit demos, doggie caricature artist, flyball demos & disc competitions, face painters, children's fingerprinting, moon bounces, food, music, agility courses, dog games, blessing of the animals, adoptable pets, groomers, doggie vendors & tons more fun. $12.00 for all dogs to participate in the days festivities & FREE for all dogs who just want to sit back and watch the action. Raffles offered all day to win big prizes. Portion of proceeds go to Darke County Animal Shelter & Humane Society. Discovery's Animal Planet is featuring our story on their site. All well mannered dogs must be on non-retractable leashes.

Carefree Connection Bus Tours & Dave Knapp Ford are proud sponsors!

Ohio Right to Life Supports Issue 3

Submitted by Darke County Right to Life

(COLUMBUS, OH) - Today, the Ohio Right to Life Society announced its strong support for Issue 3. By voting yes on Issue 3, Ohioans will preserve their freedom to choose healthcare coverage free of abortion funding and healthcare rationing. The Ohio Right to Life Board of Trustees voted unanimously to endorse the effort against mandated healthcare under Obamacare.

When successful, Issue 3 will enact the Ohio Healthcare Freedom Amendment, which provides that in Ohio no law will compel any person, employer or healthcare provider to participate in a healthcare system and that no law should prohibit the purchase or sale of healthcare insurance.

Recent reports indicate that Obamacare would mandate $50 million each year to be devoted to school-based health centers, which may offer contraception and abortion services. Obamacare also demands that $250,000 per state be devoted to "Personal Responsibility Education", a program required to teach contraception.

Passage of the Ohio Healthcare Freedom Amendment will protect Ohioans from such requirements of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and further defend innocent human life.

Ohio Right to Life supports any effort to stop Obamacare as it currently exists and views Issue 3 and the enactment of the Ohio Healthcare Freedom Amendment as an opportunity to do just that. The organization looks forward to engaging their statewide membership and 50 affiliated chapters in a united grassroots effort across the state to vote YES on Issue 3 this November.

Killing Chickens By Abraham Lincoln

My kids didn’t learn very much about feeding themselves. It is easier, for them, to buy a dead chicken at a supermarket, ready to cook and eat.

I suppose they forget to think about how long that chicken has been dead—3 months: a year? They’ll never know how much better a fresh-killed chicken is.

And the chicken soup they eat. That soup: smelling like wet chicken feathers—I can't get it past my nose—it smells, exactly, like the odor when you dip a chicken in scalding hot water prior to plucking all the feathers out.

I used to stay awake at night worrying about my family. How would my family survive if they found themselves on an island—a few palm trees casting shade over a chicken house?

Living with Cancer Support group to be held October 6, 2011

Brittany Hartwig, MT-BC from State of the Heart Hospice

The next meeting of the “Living with Cancer” Support Group will be held on Thursday, October 6, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. The meeting will feature Ms. Hartwig, speaking on the benefits of music therapy for cancer patients. The support group will be held on the 3rd floor conference room at Wayne HealthCare.

Brittany Hartwig is a Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) currently practicing music therapy at State of the Heart Hospice. State of the Heart employs two full time music therapists to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and families near the end of life. Brittany completed her Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy at Eastern Michigan University in 2008 and is currently working on her Master’s of Arts in Music Therapy at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with a focus in Medical Music Therapy and Music Psychotherapy. Brittany is involved with the Ohio Association for Music Therapists as a member of the Government Relations task force and is also a member of the American Music Therapy Association. Brittany has studied violin, piano, voice, and guitar. Brittany’s research interests include self-care/wellbeing of the professional caregiver and music therapy as integrative medicine in healthcare.

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 Christine Yount from the Cancer Association, Jill Brown, and Vicky Henderson from Wayne Hospital, and Pam Spitler from Breast Cancer Awareness of Darke County.

For further information or to register, 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.

Greenville Girls Softball Assoc Hosting Wright State Classic on Saturday

This Saturday, October 1st, The Greenville Girls Softball Association will be hosting the Wright State Classic at Stebbins Field beginning at 9:30 AM and lasting through the afternoon. Playing in the college exhibition are Wright State University, Wheeling (WV) Jesuit University, and Urbana University as well as other individual players. It is the second straight season that Stebbins Field will be hosting the fall exhibition.

Sunday, October 2nd marks the final day of the 10U, 12U, and 14U Fall Fast Pitch League. Teams from all over the region participated in the league which has been deemed a great success by GGSA officials. A total of 144 girls are playing in the league with eight 10U teams, four 12U teams, and three 14U teams.

The Greenville Girls Softball Association would also like to thank the Fall League players, parents, coaches, and volunteers for a great Chicken/Pork Chop dinner the weekend of September 24th. Their top sellers were Cheyanne Hartsock (89 dinners) and Koryann Elliott (12 dinners) who each received cash prizes for their effort. All girls who sold at least 4 tickets were placed into a $100 cash drawing. The winner of the $100 drawing was Cassie Parsons.

Tips on Healthy Eating with Diabetes from Wayne HealthCare

As a diabetic, you do not need to prepare two separate meals, (one for yourself and one for your family). You do not need to buy specific “diabetic” food items. The diabetic diet focuses on making healthy food choices and gradually making changes in your eating habits. This diet focuses on taking steps to control blood sugar, blood fats (lipids), blood pressure, and allows for a gradual weight loss. This will allow for blood sugar control while lowering your risk for developing complications.

The diabetic diet consists of keeping your intake of carbohydrates consistent. You should consume whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low fat dairy. You should choose lean meats and healthy fats. This will provide your body with needed vitamins, minerals, nutrients, energy, and fiber. You do not need to give up all sweets and sugar. However, these food items contain very little nutritional value and consuming small portions is key.

It is important to eat three meals a day. Do not forget to consume breakfast. Snacks may be consumed if there are large time gaps between meals, to maintain energy levels, to prevent hunger between meals, or to provide needed nutrients. Make sure that you choose a healthy snack and keep the portion size small.

There is not a one size fits all diet when we think about the diabetic diet. Individual’s schedules, lifestyle, and food preferences will help a registered dietitian develop a meal plan that fits you.

To learn more about the diabetic diet, eating healthy to control blood sugar, and diabetes management, consider attending education with Wayne HealthCare’s Diabetic Self-Management Education Program. You can attend individual education or group classes for a comprehensive overview of the diabetes. Medicare will pay for 100% of your diabetic diet (Medical Nutrition Therapy) education, and 80% of diabetes education (Diabetes Self Management Education) in which your secondary insurance usually will pay for the rest of the education.

You can also receive education by attending the diabetic group classes. These classes provide comprehensive education regarding the diabetes disease process, monitoring, medications, exercise, reducing risk of complications, coping with diabetes, and nutrition management. The class is provided in a series of four classes with a cost of $10 per class.

Upcoming classes provided at Wayne HealthCare will be provided in the morning or afternoon to meet your schedule. Morning class series will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on October 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2011 and December 5, 7, 12 and 14, 2011. The afternoon class series will be held on November 7, 14, 21, and 29, 2011.

Please contact the Certified Diabetes Educator at Wayne HealthCare at 937-547-5750 to learn more about the educational opportunities available for individuals with diabetes to help you live a healthy life.

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy: “Black-Gold” Rush Set To Begin in Days

A major part of Ohio’s history is the oil boom of the 1800s, but that “black-gold” eventually dried up. The shale this state sits on still contains oil and natural gas, and new technology will allow us to harvest this natural resource. What does this mean for Ohio? It means jobs, improvements to our state parks, new wealth in the poorest areas of our state and affordable energy in a time when Ohio is lacking in all the above.

Our layers of shale contain large deposits of natural gas that burns 30% cleaner than oil and 50% cleaner than coal. Ohio’s natural resources will bring our state’s economy back on track by attracting businesses such as Chesapeake Energy as well as other companies that will benefit from the trickle-down wealth that energy companies will create. House Bill 133, which was signed by Governor Kasich on June 30th, provides the first step to opening Ohio’s magnificent supply of natural resources to private industries—also known as job creators. House Bill 133 provided the ability of the state to lease public lands for natural gas and oil exploration. This was necessary to attract investors because the state owns so many acres of land in Ohio.

Ohio sits upon the two shale formations: the Marcellus shale, estimated to be the second largest natural gas field in the world—being able to supply the U.S. demand for natural gas for the next 20 years—and the Utica shale. Previously, these deep formations could not be tapped but we are no longer limited by technology of the past. Some new and updated technologies are providing more access than previously possible. The combination of horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing will allow our state to reap the opportunities that lie beneath. Horizontal drilling simply means that drilling turns horizontal after reaching a certain depth, decreasing the number of well-bores needed. Once this is achieved, hydraulic fracturing—a method by which highly pressurized water is used to crack the shale—is enacted to break up the shale and release the natural gas deep inside. This process has been used for more than 60 years and has been safely performed in over one million wells nationwide.

The presence of an energy company alone will provide jobs for Ohioans, but many more opportunities exist. Peripheral companies, such as those that manufacture pipes and other equipment used in drilling, will be attracted to Ohio in an effort to profit off Ohio’s booming new industry. This is economic stimulus without the government spending a penny. Additionally, various other industries will find Ohio’s immense supply of cheap energy appealing. The Ohio Chamber of Commerce has stated that “in 2009 a Pennsylvania study estimated Marcellus gas producers have already spent a total of $4.5 billion to develop the resource, resulting in the creation of 44,000 jobs. The same study estimated employment in the state would expand by more than 88,000 jobs in 2010 and 111,000 jobs in 2011.” It is also thought the tapping of the Bakken formation in North Dakota helps to explain the state’s 3.2% unemployment rate, the lowest in the nation. This is good for Ohio.

House Bill 133, which will go into effect on September 30th, will begin the first steps in tapping Ohio’s natural resources. Funds obtained through the leasing of state lands will be used to upkeep and renovate state parks for the future enjoyment of our citizens. In short, this act will help to provide jobs and enhance Ohio’s beautiful state parks.

The exploration and extraction of natural gas from shale formations in Ohio means prosperity and a higher standard of living for Ohioans for generations to come. Hydraulic fracturing has proven to be safe. The economic benefits are present in other states. This is a step in the right direction, and I trust the people of this district will share in the benefits that are about to come to this state.

WHIOtv.com: 6,500 Tires Recycled in Rumpke Event

For the seventh year, Rumpke hosted a tire recycling day. Over 6,500 tires were collected from hundreds of participants.

Click on the image to view the full video report from Steve Baker at WHIOtv.com

Happy Fall from DarkeJournal! (With Photo Submitted by Dick Garrison)

Dick Garrison sends us this photo that I feel needs no real introduction or explanation. Happy Fall, everyone!

Fall “History Walk” ~ Black Swamp/Greenlawn Cemetery - Presented by Versailles Area Historical Society

Fall “History Walk” ~ Black Swamp/Greenlawn Cemetery

Presented by Versailles Area Historical Society

Sunday Afternoon October 9th at 2 O’clock

This is a “walking tour” (rain or shine) so be prepared. Lawn chairs are welcome. Parking available across the street or use the two drives on the east side of the cemetery.

Tour begins with an overview of the history of the Black Swamp/Greenlawn Cemetery presented by Jim Kelch.





Janet Worz will present a history of tombstone symbolism with the many examples present locally.

The Memorial Arch and its history/military significance will be presented by Jim Condon.

The Mausoleum will be open and its history will be presented by Sarah Magoto. You will have a chance to look inside and a question & answer session will follow. Betty Armstrong & John Nickol have each devoted over 30 years to the cemetery and they will be on hand to answer your questions.

To finish out this year’s “history walk,” Deb Pohl will present the history of the Famous Russells.

Historical Society Presents “Taste of Autumn”

“Taste of Autumn” Wine or Ale and Lager Beers Tasting will be held at the Arcanum Wayne Trail Historical Society on Oct. 8th at 7:00 p.m. Featured will be a huge buffet of hot and cold appetizers and array of autumn desserts including gourmet items of traditional fall apple and pumpkin for the participants to enjoy throughout the evening. Each participant will receive five tickets upon entering the event for tasting the wine or ale and lager beers of their choice.

The climax and highlight of the annual event is the auction. This year four local artists will be featured in the auction of Art, Antiques and Collectibles slated to begin at 8:30 p.m. sharp with local Arcanum auctioneer, Jeff Puterbaugh. Prior to the auction, there will drawing for selected door prizes that will be awarded at 7:00, 8:00 and 8:30 to a lucky participant. Eligibility for the door prize is included with each ticket of admittance. Proceeds from the evening will support the continued restoration of the historical building and grounds as well as the continued education and displays of historical value for generations to come.

Due to the capacity of the large meeting in the historical building, this special event has a limited number of tickets. Tickets are $22.00 for the evening. To obtain a ticket, stop at Eilerman’s Insurance Agency on George St. in Arcanum or call Fred Troutwine at 692-8939 or Dick Troutwine at 692-5128.

St. Marys Walk With Nature / Fall Festival - October 16, 2011

The St. Marys Kiwanis, St. Marys Area Chamber of Commerce and Heritage Trails Park District along with the help of several other community partners invites everyone to enjoy the 42nd Annual “Walk with Nature” on the Miami-Erie Canal Towpath and the 3rd Annual “Fall Festival in Memorial Park”.

The “Walk with Nature” is a pleasant, level walk along the Towpath of the Canal and can begin or end at several points. The length of the walk can be from 3.3 miles to as much as 10 miles. Buses are available for transport to and from starting and stopping points. The Towpath extends north from St. Marys, Memorial Park to 40 acre pond and on to Lock 14. Also, Grand Lake Health Systems invites you to get on the “Road to Fitness” and earn 10 to 20 points for the GLHS Fitness Challenge.

The “Fall Festival in Memorial Park” in downtown St. Marys will feature:

• Entertainment at the Gazebo by the Denison University Bluegrass Band & local favorites.
• Car Show.
• Re-enactors from the Civil War period, Frontier times and Canal Boat era.
• Pre 1840 Rendezvous camp on the Canal banks, north of High St.
• Fall Farmers Market – Baked goods – Crafts – Garden Produce.
• Corn Toss Tournament
• Beer and Wine tasting
• Civil War Photography Exhibit at Arts Place on Spring St.
• Youth Activities (free) – Scarecrow Construction – Pumpkin Painting – Free scroll cut wood figures for painting – Sack Races – Giant Pumpkin – Bounce Toys.
• Historical Exhibits and Demonstrations.
• Tours of Historical Spring Street’s, hear some spooky tales from years past.

Registration for the “Walk with Nature” and “Road to Fitness” will be in Memorial Park in Downtown St. Marys. Fall Festival events will also be in Memorial Park, High St. Park and Arts Place at 138 E. Spring St.

The date of the “Walk with Nature” & “Fall Festival in the Park” is Sunday, October 16. The “Walk with Nature” will occur between 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm. Entertainment will from 12:30 am to 5:00 pm.

For further information concerning the event, contact the St. Marys Area Chamber of Commerce at 419-394-4611.

Week 5 HS Football Results & Pick'em Winner

Week 5 High School Football Results:

• Versailles 19 @ Coldwater 36
• Ansonia 30 @ Bradford 16
• Arcanum 54 vs National Trail 20
• Mississinawa  6 vs Twin Valley South 35 (Tiebreaker #1) 
• Greenville 27 @ Paulding 20 (Tiebreaker #2)

Congratulations to "abyrkett" for winning Week 5 of the Cavalier Clothing High School Pick'em Challenge!

In another relatively hard to perfect week, aybrkett picked all 5 games correctly, including Versailles' first loss of the season, as well as Greenville's first win of the season (both of which seemed to trip up other predictions).

Congrats again to abyrkett and thanks to everyone for playing! Check back next week for your next chance to win a gift certificate for a shirt from Cavalier Clothing!

Newly proposed Ohio House districts & analysis for Darke County

Ohio House and Senate districts are due to be redrawn this year. Changes must be made to reflect changes in population that have occured since the last redistricting. Ohio Republicans control the process this time around due to their 4-1 majority on the Apportionment Board. Republicans have now released the newly proposed House Districts, and the new districts represent changes for Darke County's representation in the State House.

If you didn't already know, Darke County is divided into two House Districts (see the map below). The 77th House District includes the majority of Darke County, including all of Greenville, and is currently represented by Jim Buchy. This district also includes all of Preble and Mercer Counties. The 79th District includes a handful of townships in southeastern Darke County, including Arcanum, and is represented by Richard Adams. This district includes all of Miami County.

Buchy's new district (the new 84th District) no longer includes Preble County, and loses a few townships within Darke County. Added are parts of the current 78th District (represented by John Adams), including rural areas of Shelby and Auglaize Counties.

Richard Adams' district remains largely the same, picking up just a couple Darke County townships taken from Buchy's district. Richard Adams would seem to remain the favorite to hold his seat, as he is from Miami County, and the district will remain dominated in numbers by Miami County voters.

Buchy, on the other hand, has had significant changes in his district. However, Buchy would still seem to be the favorite if he wishes to keep the seat. It does not appear from the new map that Buchy's new district includes Sidney, which is where John Adams lives. John Adams will likely be the favorite to hold his current seat, which still includes parts of Shelby County and all of Champaign County, where John Adams is very popular. Buchy's new territories in Shelby and Auglaize Counties are rural, not likely to hold great a concentration of voters, and will not have a favorite incumbent (because these areas are primarily from John Adams' old district).

Some in Darke County had hoped that Darke County would have its own district this time around. But it does not appear this will occur (at least according to the new proposal) and Darke County will remain divided among two House Districts. The Apportionment Board will meet next week, and a vote on the newly proposed districts will occur sometime soon afterward.

Garst Museum Offers Free Admission on Smithsonian Magazine’s Seventh Annual Museum Day

Museum Day 2011 Poised to be Largest to Date

Featured exhibits include Annie Oakley, Crossroads of Destiny, and Lowell Thomas

Greenville, Ohio—On Saturday, September 24, 2011, Garst Museum will participate in the seventh annual Museum Day. Garst Museum will join participating museums and cultural institutions nationwide to open their doors free of charge to all visitors who download the Museum Day Ticket from Smithsonian.com. Museum Day is a celebration of the dissemination of knowledge to anyone and everyone interested, without a price tag, emulating the free admission policy of the Smithsonian Institution’s Washington, D.C.-based facilities.

With support from CITGO, Museum Day 2011 is poised to be the largest to date, outdoing last year’s record-breaking event. In 2010, museum goers downloaded 227,747 tickets resulting in more than 500,000 museum-goers visiting over 1,300 venues in all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico.

Garst Museum executive director Dr. Clay Johnson stated that “We think it is important to participate in Smithsonian Magazine’s Museum Day. This is a great opportunity to be part of a nationwide observance of American heritage and culture.”

Ice Cream Social to be Held at BRC on Friday Evening

The Eden Alternative Committee is bringing the Ice Cream Social back to Brethren Retirement Community. A big evening is planned for Friday, September 23rd in the Brick Room and along our Main Street. From 5:30 to 7:30pm we will be offering hot dogs, popcorn, baked goods, cold drinks and of course ICE CREAM! Winnie Pearl will also be performing in the Brick Room at 7pm.

In 2001, Brethren Retirement Community made its official pledge by becoming a Certified Home on the Eden Alternative Registry. The core concept of The Eden Alternative is strikingly simple - we see our environments as habitats for human beings rather than a facility for the frail and elderly. We encourage living life to the fullest!

The Eden Alternative movement is a journey, a never-ending journey of creating a person-centered community with ongoing commitment and education. The Eden Alternative journey impacts the physical environment, organizational structure, and psycho-social interactions of the organization. Brethren Retirement Community is committed to continuing the journey of “Edenizing” our campus in order to enhance the lives of our elders, families, staff and community.

This social event will allow all the staff and residents to showcase the changes that have taken place in their lives and in their hearts as we have changed our culture.

This invitation is extended to all Brethren Retirement Community residents and their families, staff and their families, and everyone in the Darke County community who enjoys ice cream and visiting with friends old and new. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for an evening of good food, ice cream, entertainment and fellowship.

Godown Receives Certificate from League

Gail Godown, left, receives a Certificate of Appreciation from the League of Women Voters of Darke County from Diane Johnson, right, Tour of Homes Chairman.

Gail Godown received a Certificate of Appreciation from the League of Women Voters of Darke County from Diane Johnson, Tour of Homes chairman. Ms. Godown is the owner of Lifestyles Interior Design Studio at 533 S. Broadway, Greenville, Ohio. She was instrumental in assisting the League Tour of Homes committee in selecting homes for the event scheduled for Sunday, September 25th from 1-5:00 pm.

The Tour of Homes features the following homes: Nathan and Erin Miley at 6115 Palestine-Union City Road in the community of Nashville; Gloria and Donald Rich, whose home is located at 19 Parkdale, Arcanum; and Angie and Mike Ditmer who live at 9911 Grubbs-Rex Road, near Laura.

Tickets are $7.00 in advance at the following businesses: in Greenville, Ann's Gifts, Sweet 101, The Bistro Off Broadway, The Ivy League Florist, The Flower Patch, Headliners Again Beauty Salon, and Furniture Express; in Arcanum at The Rose Post. Tickets are also available at the door for $10.00. Children 5 years old and older need a ticket.

The homes range from modern to traditional to primitive. Tour visitors will see three lovely homes that may inspire them with ideas for their own home. Two of the homes, the Mileys and the Riches were recommended for the tour by Gail Godown of Lifestyles Interiors. If you are a history buff, the Ditmer home is a must see.

Proceeds from the Tour of Homes are used by the Darke County League of Women Voters for educational activities and meetings and voter service programs sponsored by the League in Darke County.

Week 5 of the High School Pick 'em

DEADLINE FOR WEEK 5 PICKS IS FRIDAY AT 5:00 PM

Here are this week's games (including the first inter-county match up of the year in Ansonia @ Bradford).

• Versailles @ Coldwater
• Ansonia @ Bradford
• Arcanum vs National Trail
• Mississinawa vs Twin Valley South (Tiebreaker #1)
• Greenville @ Paulding (Tiebreaker #2)

Simply email darkejournal@gmail.com with the subject "week 5." List the team you think will win, as well as your prediction for the total scores for each of the tiebreaker games.

The person who picks the most games correctly will win a free shirt of their choice from Cavalier Clothing (who has an amazing selection of designs for schools all over the county), along with the illustrious prize of bragging rights. In the event of a tie, the winner will be the one with the closest total score of tiebreaker #1. In the freak event that there is still a tie, the closest total score in tiebreaker #2 will win (an individual may only win one shirt per season). The winner will be announced the weekend after the games. Entries MUST be received no later than 5:00pm on Friday!

Good luck, and get your picks in early!

DDN: Annie Oakley Inducted to Dayton Walk of Fame

The Dayton Daily News has coverage of the Walk of Fame induction ceremony held yesterday in the Wright-Dunbar Business District Center on West Third Street. This year, Darke County's Annie Oakley was inducted.

Check out the story to learn more.

Prairie Days Map and Schedule of Events

 Prairie Days is this weekend. Check out the map below and the schedule for each day.

Click here for the schedule for Saturday.

Click here for the schedule for Sunday.

Job Opportunities at GTI

Little Miss/Mr. Patriot Contest Open for Registration

The New Madison Community and Tri-Village School Fair still is taking contestants for the Little Miss/Mr. Patriot Contest. The contest is open to boys & girls who are 3-5 years of age by September 30, 2011. Contestants must be a resident of Tri-Village School District, enrolled at Tri-Village or in a preschool in the Tri-Village School District.

The contest will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 7, 2011 in the High School Gym. Contestants are judged on dress, personality, and poise. All contestants will receive a prize at the judging. The winners will be awarded a crown and must ride in the School Fair parade on Saturday morning.

All entries must be received by September 30, 2011 at 3:30 p.m. Entry forms can be picked up at the New Madison Mini Mart.

Kidmunity to Hold Chicken and Pork Chop Dinner

The Children’s Ministry at EUM Church, also known as Kidmunity, is holding a Romer’s Chicken & Pork Chop Dinner on October 9 from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. at EUM’s Downtown Campus, 111 Devor Street in Greenville, Ohio. Dinners will include a quarter chicken or pork chop, applesauce, chips, roll and drink. Only drive through service is available. The cost is $7.25 for a chicken dinner or $7.50 for a pork chop dinner. Tickets are pre-sale only and may be purchased at these Greenville locations: the EUM Church office at 111 Devor Street, Sweet One-O-One, or Jim Gable State Farm office. Proceeds from this dinner will be used to purchase Bibles for Kidmunity.

Kidmunity is a ministry of EUM Church. We would love to have you come and see what we are all about. Our worship services are Saturday at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday at 8:15, 9:45, and 11:15 a.m. at our Worship Center located at 1451 Sater Street (corner of Sater and Sebring-Warner Road). The Downtown Campus, 111 Devor Street, houses our offices and preschool. For more information, go to www.eumchurch.org or call 548-3211.

Guest Column from Representative Richard Adams: "Listening to the Voices of Ohioans"

I believe that most decisions in life should be made by the individuals who will be directly affected by them. They should not be made by bureaucrats in a centralized location, people who have never, and will never, meet those which their decisions and actions impact.

Since the passing of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, or “Obamacare,” Americans began to understand that their healthcare decisions may soon no longer be made in the doctor’s office or at the kitchen table, but rather in Washington.

At a time when the United States and Ohio are in desperate need for job creation, the federal healthcare law will result in just the opposite. Due to the size and cost of the program, government will inevitably increase spending on healthcare, which will trickle down to taxpayers and small businesses. Simply implementing the law will be costly in itself, but the costs that are sure to come down the road will be additionally harmful to our struggling economy. Anyone who follows politics knows that the government has a habit of spending more money than it originally intended or promised. In fact, some estimates show the plan to cost up to $100 billion more than initially expected. If you think health care is expensive now, wait until it’s “free”.

Businesses will be forced to abide by new standards and regulations, pay higher taxes and face harsh penalties, thus diminishing the incentive to create jobs. While the law will not fully be in effect until 2014, side effects are already being felt today. The size of the bill itself has caused a great deal of uncertainty in the marketplace; business owners simply do not know what to expect. Because of this, many are unwilling to take the risk of making important decisions, such as hiring new employees or expanding services.

As people and states gradually learned more and more about the law and its effects, they began to spring into action. Ohioans took matters into their own hands and gathered enough signatures to ensure a vote. Because of their efforts, Ohioans will have a voice on the healthcare mandate come November.

I will continue to support legislation that will enhance the freedom of all Ohioans, and I am always eager to listen to my constituents. Please do not hesitate to contact my office with questions or ideas related to the future of our great state.