Monday, December 31, 2012

Versailles Girls Varsity Bowlers Remain Undefeated

Megan Ward
Northland Lanes in Lima was the setting for the Lady Tigers of Versailles going up against the Lady Redskins of Wapakoneta. “Wapak is not quite as strong as in years past, but this should still be a tough match for the girls,” said Coach Phlipot. Versailles jumped to an 84 pin lead after game 1 by rolling and 815 to Wapak’s 731. The second game also went to Versailles 837-743. 4 out of the 5 Baker Games went to the Lady Tigers, 157-132, 179-133, 120-150, 171-120 and 160-130. The total score was 2,439 to 2,139.

Leading scores were Megan Monnin 189, Hannah Niekamp 183 and Brooke Wehrkamp 180.

On Saturday, December 29th, Versailles was up against Marion Local at Community Lanes in Minster. The Tigers had no problem with the Flyers and dominated the match. Regular game scores were 783-623 and 912-634. The Baker games also belonged to the Lady Tigers. Games were as follows: 135-157, 141-81, 152-120, 151-127 and 169-137. The final score was 2,443 to 1,879. Leading scorers were Megan Ward 201, Brooke Wehrkamp 189 and Paige Holsapple 186 & 183.

“Every week the girls are getting a little bit better. If one or two girls are struggling, the others are stepping up and making it happen.”

The 3rd Annual Ladies Auxiliary Eagles Breakfast to benefit the Versailles High School Bowling Program is set for January 27th from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. The bowling team and coaches will be on hand to serve you! Tickets for a 42” LED HDTV or an Apple iPad will also be available. The drawing will be at 12:00 pm.

Versailles Boys Varsity Bowlers Now 5-2

Michael Davidson
The Varsity Boys Bowlers recently competed in 2 more WOHSBC matches against Ottawa Glandorf and Parkway. They faced Ottawa Glandorf at Speedway Lanes in New Bremen and Parkway at Community Lanes in Minster.

The match against the Titans was set to be a good one. On paper, the Tigers and the Titans were very close in total team average. OG came out strong the first game rolling a 1,028 to Versailles 995. “After the first 5 frames OG was on fire and we were very flat. After a talk with the kids, they pulled it together and ended up the game finishing strong and keeping the match close.” The second game belonged to the Tigers 960-910. This put the Tigers up 17 pins going into the 5 Baker Games.

Versailles struggled in the 1st game rolling a 146 to the Titans 198. The next 3 games went to the Tigers 196-192, 195-162 and 195-162. This put Versailles up 33 pins with 1 Baker game to go. OG ended up winning the last Baker game 173-168 but it was not quite enough as Versailles won 2,858 to 2,830. Leading scorers for the Tigers was Jordan Groff 232, Michael Davidson 222 & 201 and Nathan Peters with a 205 & 202. “After losing two matches by less than a total of 45 pins, it was great to see the kids win a close one.”

The match against Parkway was all Versailles. The Tigers came out of the gates firing a 1,082 to 792. The second game Versailles also won 985 to 871. All 5 Baker games went to Versailles as well; 203-122, 210-118, 148-132, 247-156 and 209-170. The total score was Versailles 3,084 to Parkway 2,361. Leading scorers were Michael Davidson 258 & 240, Ben Ahrens 230, Nathan Peters 225 & 206 and Jordan Groff 222.

The 3rd Annual Ladies Auxiliary Eagles Breakfast to benefit the Versailles High School Bowling Program is set for January 27th from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. The bowling team and coaches will be on hand to serve you! Tickets for a 42” LED HDTV or an Apple iPad will also be available. The drawing will be at 12:00 pm.

Children’s Theatre Club Holds Auditions for High School Musical

Children’s Theatre Club is preparing for their second season! This year the club will produce four productions including; High School Musical, Annie Get Your Gun, You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown, and Narnia.

Children's Theatre Club is a non-profit organization which offers Theatre opportunities to area youth and is open to students in kindergarten thru the 12th grade. The club is program for children by children. Every member who auditions will be included on stage, and every effort will be made to highlight and give a part to anyone who wants one. Members sign up for the shows they are interested in and can choose to perform in however many shows they like. Opportunities are also available to participate in other areas of theatre including directing, design, and script writing.

Auditions for their first production High School Musical will be held on Saturday January 19th (this is earlier than previously announced). Auditions will be held at their building at 638 Wagner Ave (between Goodwill and Big Lots). Members will need to be present for the whole audition time. Registration will begin at 9:30am, at 10am there will be a short meeting for members and parents, auditions will begin after the meeting (just a note auditions are closed to parents and non-members). A lunch break will be taken from 12:30 till 1:00pm; parents are permitted to bring food for their children, but the members are not permitted to leave. After lunch the cast will be announced and rehearsal will begin. Rehearsal will end at 2:30pm. During auditions we will be teaching a dance and musical number from the show. Anyone interested in not being in the cast, but would like to work in one of the other production areas, need to be present for the auditions. The $40 dollar fee must be paid on the day of auditions unless prior arrangements are made. It is our policy to not turn away anyone who wants to participate, anyone having difficulty with the fee please contact us to make special arrangements.

For more information about the organization or questions about the auditions please feel free to contact us at 547-3360 or childrenstheatreclub@yahoo.com.

DAR Donated to FISH Mitten Tree


Fort GreeneVille Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution donated mittens and gloves to the FISH mitten tree at the Brethren Retirement Center.

Pictured: Helen Wright, Chris Nehring, Shirley Hughes, Debbie Nisonger, Cindy Austen, and Taylor Nehring.

Sunday, December 30, 2012

"A Potpourri of New Year’s Resolutions for House Speaker" a Guest Post from Charles and Rebecca Reier

Guest posts are welcome and encouraged. If you have something to say and are able to do it in a respectful, reasonable way, send your piece to darkejournal@gmail.com. The contents of guest posts do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DarkeJournal.com.   

According to the Wall Street Journal December 27, 2012 article titled The Biggest Cliff of All by Daniel Henninger, “The largest threat in the world is the collapse of public policy making”. Based on this shared fear, we have drafted the following list of New Year’s Resolutions for Speaker of the House Rep. John Boehner. If followed carefully, they would return him to the status of the young leader we once
voted into office some twenty odd years ago. We have financially supported his promise that if sent to Washington he would bring about conservative change and “fight the corruption inside the Beltway”.

The adoption of at least some of these resolutions would bring about a renaissance of character for which his Republican supporters long and possibly avert the biggest cliff of all – a catastrophic failure of public policy.

Resolutions for 2013

  • I WILL NEVER again vote for fighting two wars without providing the austerity and taxes necessary to pay for the cost both human and material.
  • I WILL NEVER again support bizarre Department of Energy science fiction projects like Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS) where dirty coal-generated electricity is used to pump organic CO2 underground at high pressure where it threatens the safety of cities, industries and watersheds – paid for with hundreds of millions of tax dollars.
  • I WILL NEVER again sponsor or vote for bankrupting entitlements like the Medicare Part D Prescription Benefit Act that was nothing more than a “pork barrel” for the pharmaceutical industry enacted during the Bush administration.
  • I WILL NEVER again ask “Where are the jobs, Mr. President?” when I know my fellow Republican Mitt Romney and others enriched themselves by sending them to China- a country that manipulates its currency, steals technology, ignores patent rights and human rights . Recently Mitt Romney joined the Democratic Senator from New York, Charles Schumer, in a call to put an end to unfair trade policies of China.
  • I WILL NEVER again label a plan developed by the President of the United States or any other elected official as being “irrational and bizarre”. The use of the terms “irrational and bizarre” suggest that the individual is emotionally disturbed at best or psychotic at worst.
  • I WILL NEVER again address a prestigious public event, like the Commencement ceremony at The Ohio State University (where graduation represents an event of a lifetime for so many middle class indebted parents and students) with trash talk terms like “boner” and “wiener”.
  • I Will not continuously attack the President of the United States with the word “leadership” knowing that this term has been used as a racial slur every time Afro-Americans broke new ground in sports or politics.
  • I Will never again attack the President of the United States with statements such as “pull the plug on Granny” when the President is making a serious attempt to restrain useless but expensive end-of-life efforts that benefit no one except the healthcare industry.
  • I Will work with the President of the United States to take the experience gained from “Romneycare” in Massachusetts and apply it to the Affordable Care Act (not the negatively coined term “Obamacare”). American families desperately need a healthcare system that is the product of bi-partisan legislative skills that amalgamate the expertise gained by the Social Security Administration and Health Care systems within our 52 states. This conundrum requires a “Think Tank” solution with amicable bi-partisan support.
  • I Will work to stamp out crime, fraud and cronyism built into so many government programs as a form of patronage knowing that if any group is to be “thrown in front of the bus” it should be the lobbyists that promote programs that are easily subject to fraud and corruption.
  • I Will vigorously oppose any extension of American troops in Afghanistan. Both Russia and America have invested over 25 years of effort in an attempt to install either a Communistic or a Democratic system without success at the cost of trillions of dollars and tens of thousands of lives.
  • I Will work to develop a “Red, White and Blue” Republican Party with “Red” representing traditional Republican austerity at every level, “White” recognizing the value of independent thought and thinkers and “Blue” having compassion for the scores of individuals who have problems through no fault of their own.

(If any of the readers find flaws that seriously undermine the veracity in any of the elements of these resolutions, the authors will contribute $200 to the Hope Foundation.)

The Importance of American Manufacturing – Regina McRae

by Logan Beam

[This post is part of a series of articles submitted by Darke County's All American Clothing Co. highlighting American manufacturing. Expect a new post each Sunday with a different focus... -JL]

Hello Everyone,

I hope you had a wonderful Holiday weekend with your families. We did not have a segment last week due to Christmas, but I am very excited about our next guest, Regina McRae. She is a self accomplished woman who has endeavored a lot to become one of New York`s finest cake artists. There is much more to this woman than just her baking skills. Regina is a genuine person who cares about American Manufacturing. And, she is just as sweet as the icing on her cakes!

Regina McRae
This week`s guest is Regina McRae. She is the Founder of Grandma`s Secrets, a home style bakery in New York. Regina and her baking skills have been featured in Oprah Magazine, The New York Times, and The Food Network.

Q. Please tell us a little about yourself.

A. I began my business 17 years ago with $10 and 9 pies. Despite overwhelming odds, and numerous obstacles, I never stopped believing in myself or my products. I have emerged as one of NYC’s premiere cake artists, and seek to give back to the business community as much as I can.

Q. Why is American Manufacturing important to you?

A. We cannot look to the government to bring us out this economic slump. We have to turn to ourselves. That means keeping jobs here in the USA, shopping small, and supporting small businesses.

Q. Where did your passion for USA manufacturing begin?

A. My mother was a nurse, and was union, so I grew up with a strong faith in unions and Americans supporting each other. However, when the economy began to collapse, and I watched as more and more major corporations outsourced, and jobs became fewer and fewer, I realized each of us can do something about it. Buy American, refuse to support companies that outsource or don’t hire union, and stand up for your beliefs.

Q. How have you expressed that passion throughout your life?

A. I never crossed a picket line, have stood behind American workers, sign petitions or any little thing I can do to support American workers’ causes, and encourage others to shop small. I shun mega-corporations, would rather by hand made or home made than off the rack, and am very vocal in encouraging others to follow my lead.

Q. What is your favorite quote?

A. We are Main Street, not Wall Street. We are not going to get bailed out. We have to shop small, and shop American.

It was a great pleasure to have interviewed Regina this week. Just checking out her website will make your mouth water! You can find her home baked goods at http://www.grandmasecrets.com/. Thank you all for reading another week of ‘The Importance of American Manufacturing.’

Logan
All American Clothing Co.

If you, or someone you know, would be interested in being interviewed on the Importance of American Manufacturing, please send inquiries to Logan Beam at logan@allamericanclothing.com

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Greenville Area Dog Club Offers Dog Training Classes

The Greenville Area Dog Club winter session of obedience, agility, and conformation classes begins the week of January 7, 2013.

Through the years more classes have been added to meet the growing interest in dog training. Many people like the variety of classes available.

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

Obedience classes begin Tuesday, January 8th.. Classes offered include puppy (12 weeks to five months), beginner, beginner novice, novice, open obedience, and conformation. (Note) Conformation will be on a different night.

“Our puppy and beginning obedience classes are designed to teach basic house manners, grooming and care of the dog, heeling, sit, down, stay, and other commands,” said Barb Rhoades, Director of Obedience training. She also added that a new class is being offered for clients who have completed beginner class and want to continue with training. The Beginner Novice class is designed to review what they learned in beginner class and correct any training mistakes or difficulties that have arisen as well as teach the first steps to receiving an AKC DEGREE called Beginner Novice. Some off lead work is introduced, as well as more advanced training methods. Dogs and clients who have taken the class have really enjoyed the experience.

Registration for obedience classes is from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, January 8th. Orientation and classes will follow registration.

Dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations, and participants must bring a copy of the dog’s vaccination records to registration. Puppies must have had their first two sets of vaccinations to enroll in puppy class. Veterinarians need to certify all vaccinations given at home or by a breeder.

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

Charlotte Wisener, Director of Agility is also announcing dog agility classes will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays. Some of the classes offered include Introduction to Agility, Beginners, Intermediate Agility Class and Advanced Agility Class. The Monday classes begin on Monday, January 7th., while the Wednesday classes begin on Wednesday, January 9th.

Pre-registration is required for agility classes. To pre-register, please call 937-692-5310.

Those participating in Greenville Area Dog Club classes are reminded that parking is available both in front of the building as well as near the rear entrance. The entrance for dog classes is located on the north side of the building, near the rear.
Those bringing dogs to class are reminded to feed the dogs earlier in the day, rather than before class.

Most classes use dog treats as training aids. Participants are reminded to bring small, bite-sized soft treats that can be used for rewarding their dogs.

All Dogs Must Be Leashed When Entering The Building. Participants also are reminded to wear comfortable, tie-on shoes, and to dress warmly.

Guest Post from Marilyn Delk

Dear friends,

Thanks to the generous spirit of the people of our community, the Fish Mitten Tree has once again provided mittens and gloves to warm the hands and hearts of children enrolled in Darke County Head Start programs. This hearty demonstration of the true spirit of Christmas which lingers long beyond December 25th is very much appreciated.

Special gratitude goes to Aaron and Michele Cox and their staff at Montage in Greenville, and Judy Fourman and her crew at Arcanum’s Ben Franklin Store who watched over the trees in their places of business, as well as to Holly Hill and Janet Ashworth at The Brethren’s Retirement Community who looked after the Mitten Tree at that facility. And many thanks to the Darke County Commissioners who took time from their busy schedule to kick off the project, meeting and visiting with youngsters from Head Start while hanging the first mittens on the tree at Montage.

Many local churches, clubs, and organizations donated mittens, gloves, and more to the project; sincere thanks goes to these groups as well. Additionally, this successful project could not have been possible without the publicity provided by our local news outlets, The Daily Advocate, The Early Bird, DarkeJournal.com, and County News Online; their assistance is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Marilyn Delk, Fish volunteer

Free Computer Classes at Library

The Greenville Public Library is again offering free computer classes for beginners. There are three different classes: Basic Computer Skills, Internet, and Email. These three will be offered two times – Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on January 7th, 14th, and 28th and also on Thursdays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on January 10th, 17th, and 24th.

Librarian Stephanie St. Myers is the instructor, as seen above. She's a computer whiz and a very patient, easy-to-understand teacher. Please sign up at the Circulation or Reference Desks or call the Library at 548-3915 to reserve a place in class.

Local Cancer Support Group to hold Christmas Carry-In on Thursday, January 3, 2013 at 7 p.m.

The Cancer Association Support Group was cancelled in December due to an emergency.
The group will meet for the annual Christmas carry-in (a little late :) ) on January 3, 2013 at Wayne Health Care. The carry-in will be held in the 3rd floor Conference Room.

Chicken will be provided by Judy Eikenberry (board member.) Table service and drinks also provided. If possible, please bring a dish to share with the group. If you aren’t able to bring a dish, please come and join in the fun anyway. There will be Christmas music and some Christmas games and a time of food and fellowship.

The Cancer Association is a non-profit organization which provides benefits to cancer patients living in Darke County. The association partners with United Way and is not associated with the American Cancer Society.

If you know of anyone living in Darke County that is battling cancer, have them call the office and talk about what benefits might be available. PH 937-548-9960

Supply Chain Management Students Prepare for the Future

(Click to enlarge) Left to right: Diana Carrubba job shadowing Alex Ruble at Woodland Primary, Stetson Zumbrun job shadowing Todd Hickerson at Prairie Star Farms, and Zach Bailey job shadowing at the Municipal Building with Curt Garrison, Safety Service Director.
The Supply Chain Management Program at the Greenville Career Tech Center recently completed their second job shadowing experience of the year. Supply Chain Management is a Junior/Senior Program offered at Greenville Career Tech Center. The emerging workforce students in the Supply Chain Management Program were able to gain valuable career exploration experience by visiting local business and industry. 

Senior Zach Bailey was able to job shadow the Safety Service Director, Curt Garrison at the Municipal Building. Zach reflected on the experience, "I learned that there is a lot more than you might think from first glance that goes into the various aspects of the city." Senior Diana Carubba completed a job shadowing experience at Woodland Elementary and commented, "I thought it was both fun and educational. I was able to observe the learning experience children go through at an early age." Senior Stetson Zumbrun completed a job shadowing experience with Todd Hickerson at Prairie Star Farms. Stetson stated, "I learned about packaging, technical aspects, and how it connects to the world of supply chain management. I also learned that a four year degree was needed to become a director of marketing and supply chain. It was a valuable learning experience."

If you would like to volunteer to be a host for a job shadowing experience for a Supply Chain Management Student, please contact Dara Buchy at dbuchy@greenville.k12.oh.us.




Friday, December 28, 2012

WHIO: Pitsburg House Fire Causes $250k in Damage, Injures 4 Firefighters, Chain of Neighbors Carry Out Family's Possessions

WHIOtv.com has the story of a house fire in Pitsburg that occurred on Wednesday evening on Merrie Lane.

The cause of the fire is undetermined but is not considered suspicious, according to WHIO, and caused approximately $250k in damages.

During the fire, 4 firefighters were injured: two were treated at the scene, and two were sent to Wayne Health Care. Neighbors formed a chain in "bucket brigade" style to remove the family's possessions as much as possible. Thankfully, all of the family members were unharmed.

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


RESUMÉ AND JOB INTERVIEW WORKSHOP

Are you having trouble compiling your resum̩? Are you nervous about your upcoming interview? Join us at EUM Church for a Resum̩ and Interview Prep Workshop on Saturday, January 12th from 9:00 Р11:00 AM at the Downtown Campus located at 111 Devor Street in Greenville, Ohio. Registration is limited so sign up early!

Did you know that there can be as many as 200 resumés submitted for a single job opening? Over 90% of those resumés are rejected without the applicant ever getting an interview. The question then becomes, "How do I make my resumé one that ends up on the desk instead of in the trash can?"

Trainer Mike Woods will offer an informative two hour workshop that will give the basics of preparing a good resumé and tips on what hiring managers are looking for when they receive resumés. We will also spend some time learning how to prepare for a job interview. The cost is free and one-on-one assistance is available as well. For more information, contact Susan O’Dell at 937-548-3211 ext 208.

The Resumé and Job Interview Workshop is offered through EUM Church. 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) in Greenville, OH. The Downtown Campus, 111 Devor Street, houses our offices and preschool. For more information, go to www.eumchurch.org or call 548-3211.

OPEN THIS SUNDAY!

The Versailles Area Historical Society announces that the Museum at Versailles will be open this Sunday, December 30th (and every Sunday through January 13) from 1:00 until 4:00 p.m. to show off our current displays for the season.

Our current new display entitled, “Rock-in Around the Christmas Tree... a Tribute to the Christmas in the 50’s”.

This wonderful display features flash back memories to the home of Beaver Cleaver, or Ricky Nelson, or perhaps Dezi and Lucy. Yes we’re talking the fabulous 50’s; Eisenhower was in the White House, cars were all made in Detroit, martini’s were the cocktail of choice and “Happy Days” was more than just a TV show. Come see what’s under our aluminum tree or perhaps you would rather visit Martin’s Toy Land and memories about John Heiby who wore a special suit for many local youth. Maybe you remember special decorations from your youth? Thanks to Norma & Tom Parin there is a Santa collection that will bring back a flood of memories. Do you remember the lifelike Santa that spent Christmas in numerous downtown windows? That Santa most notably was at Reed Brothers Men’s Clothing (later Garrison’s) and The Fashion Shop, owned by the late Leona Weaver.

If Christmas in the 50’s( that’s 1850’s) is more your style, the Christmas tree decorations from the St. Peter’s country church are adorning the tree in our “Church Room” and beautiful Victorian tree ornaments are in a new display, called “Sit-a-spell” remembering the “Parlor”.

Plus, cases of wonderful toys through the years are featured.

Also holiday touches throughout are sure to delight our guests.

So join us this Sunday and take the opportunity to spend a little time reminiscing with us! There will be tours available and as always there is no charge, but donations are always welcome.

The museum is at the corner of State Route 121 and West Streets in Versailles. If you wish to reach us by telephone we are at (937)526-4222.

We hope to see you and your family this Sunday!

‘WINTER EXTRAVAGNAZA’ FOR DONORS

DARKE CO. DAYS BLOOD DRIVE CAMPAIGN OFFERS SPECIAL PRIZES

Darke County and Community Blood Center (CBC) are ringing in the New Year with a “Winter Extravaganza” of prizes for blood donors! Register to donate during “Darke County Donor Days,” now through Jan. 31, at any Darke County Blood Drive, and win some special gifts that Santa may have forgotten to leave under the tree.

Everyone who registers to donate during “Darke County Donor Days”, at any Darke County Blood Drive is automatically entered into a drawing for four special prizes: A Kindle Fire, an iPod Touch, a Vizio 32-inch TV, or a Nikon Cool Pix camera. Four winners will be drawn at the end of December and another four at the end of January. (Donors can enter the drawing only once during the campaign).

Thursday, January 3, 2013
Spirit Medical Transport
5484 St. Rt. 49, Greenville
4:00 – 7:00 pm
Open to the Community
Appointments Encouraged!

Friday, January 4, 2013
Midmark Corporation
7:00 am – 11:00 am
Employees Only


Thursday, December 27, 2012

MEN’S BASKETBALL LEAGUE FOR THE NEW YEAR

Winter is basketball season! Basketball is thought of as one of those all-American sports, and for good reason. The game was invented in Springfield, MA at the International YMCA Training School. Dr. James Naismith developed the activity in 1891 as an easy-to-learn and interesting game that could be played indoors through the long Massachusetts winters.

Luckily for those of us in the middle of Ohio’s long winter, The YMCA of Darke County has Men’s Basketball Leagues on Monday and Wednesday, starting January 7, from 7:30-9:00 pm. The Y is known for its youth basketball lessons and leagues, and would like to once again get some age 18+ teams together. Each team will play at least one game each week for seven weeks. Y Sports Director Daniel Tinch says, “We want the Y to be known not only for youth development but for healthy competition for adults, too.” Those interested in playing can join as a team, or, if you do not have a team, contact the Y and leave your name and we will find one for you to join. Contact Daniel Tinch for more information, 547-3777 or dtinch@ymcadarkecounty.org.

RESOLUTE: Many people include improving their fitness level as one of their New Year’s resolutions. For some people, walking a mile a few days a week fits the bill, while others have goals of losing weight, running their first race or getting stronger by lifting weights. Where ever you might be along the fitness continuum, the Y can help. Remember that we have affordable memberships for everyone. We do not turn anyone away for inability to pay. We have programs in place to provide financial assistance to those in need. To see if you qualify, visit the Y and ask about our scholarship assistance program.

‘TRY THE Y’ WEEK: If you are curious about what the Y has to offer, take advantage of “Try the Y” week! The first week of January (Wed., Jan. 2 through Sat., Jan. 5) our building will be open to the public and there will be a variety of free classes throughout the week. Come in and see what’s going on at the Y! It’s a great opportunity to get a jump on those New Year’s Resolutions, too! Come in and get moving!

SCHOOL’S OUT FUN DAY: Many parents can relate to the craziness that happens when kids are cooped up inside! If you are looking for a day’s worth of fun activities for your elementary school- age children, Wed., Jan. 2, the Y will offer a School’s Out Fun Day for children in kindergarten through fifth grade, from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm. This is a great opportunity to get the kids out of the house and get them moving! We will have crafts, gym activities, swimming, a movie and will even help with homework! Children should wear gym clothes, bring a swim suit and towel, and pack a lunch. This all-day activity is only $12 for members and $26 for non-members. Call or stop in to register!

For more information about membership or programs, visit us online at www.ymcadarkecounty.org or call the Y at 548-3777.

West Ohio Agronomy Day

West Ohio Agronomy Day will be held on Monday, January 14th at St. Michael’s Hall in Fort Loramie. The day will begin at 7:30 a.m. with a “Listening Session” and breakfast sponsored by the Ohio Soybean Association, followed at 8:30 a.m. by an update from the grain marketers of Cargill and Trupointe Cooperative. The programs dealing with Private Pesticide Applicator Recertification Credits for farmers and Continuing Education Units for Certified Crop Advisors then begin at 9:00 a.m.

Once again, Purdue’s Dr. Fred Whitford (AKA “Fred from Purdue”) will be with us, this time talking about “Keeping the Trailer Hitched to the Truck.” This year’s line-up will also see Dr. Robert Mullen from Potash Corporation presenting on Phosphorus and Nitrogen Management as it relates to Soil Fertility and Dr. Terry Niblack from OSU discussing nematodes in corn and soybean cyst nematodes. Dr. Laura Lindsay, also from OSU, will talk about Using all the Tools of the Trade in Maximizing Soybean Production. Additional topics to be addressed include cover crops, resistant weed management, fumigation, manure management and fly control. Pesticide Recertification Credits are available in CORE and Categories 1, 2, and 6.

We will also be holding the same program/same categories that evening beginning at 5:30p for those not able to attend during the day.

Farmers who want to recertify their private pesticide applicator’s license should go online at http://pested.osu.edu to either register with a credit card or to download the form to pay by check. Forms may also be picked up at any Ohio Extension office. If not registered online, the completed form can be submitted with the $35 fee on January 14.

For those just wanting to attend for the information (and the fellowship!), the cost is $10 if signed up by January 7th to be paid at the door on January 14. A single call to 937-498-7239 or email to brown.1522@osu.edu saves you Five Bucks!

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

Darke County Snow Emergency Cancelled

Sheriff Toby L. Spencer announced that as of 1:45 PM today, December 27, 2012 all snow advisories and emergencies have been cancelled. Some secondary roadways remain snow and ice covered; extra caution should be exercised while driving.

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Snow Emergency for City of Greenville

No comments:
Mayor Bowers sent along the following note:
As of 11:15 today the City of Greenville is declaring a snow emergency. The snow routes need to be cleared of vehicles so the Street Department can get the snow removed.

Please, if at all possible, stay home avoid the dangerous conditions today!

Level 2 Snow Emergency for Darke County

No comments:
Sheriff Toby L. Spencer announced that as of 12:00 PM on 12/26/ 2012, Darke County will be at a Level 2 snow advisory. Level 2 snow advisory means that roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads can be very icy. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roadways. People should contact their employer to see if they should report to work. If you are driving, use extreme caution.

Thank you for your patience during these severe weather conditions.

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

WHIOtv.com: Portion of SR 47 Named "PFC Douglas Dickey Memorial Highway"

The Dickey family with State Rep Buchy and Gov. Kasich
WHIOtv.com has a story that a portion of SR 47 near Ansonia has now been named "PFC Douglas Dickey Memorial Highway."

Substitute House Bill 325 allows markers to be erected in honor of PFC Douglas Dickey, who was a U.S. Marine who served in Vietnam in 1966 and 1967. He posthumously received the Medal of Honor for heroism during Operation Beacon Hill 1 while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade, 3rd Marine Division.

The article quotes State Representative Jim Buchy as saying “It has been an honor to work with local veterans and the Dickey family while navigating the legislative process to have this memorial highway named for Darke County’s only Medal of Honor recipient since the Civil War. Douglas Dickey’s sacrifice and bravery in service to protect freedom has now been justly commemorated.”

WHIO also notes that "Members of the Douglas E. Dickey family joined Representative Buchy at the bill signing. Sub. House Bill 325 received unanimous support in both the House and Senate."

Click here or on the photo to read the full story.

Monday, December 24, 2012

Citizen of the World Part IV: Very Harry Christmas

by: Elizabeth Horner

Click to enlarge
There was a sense of camaraderie in the air. For once, when I looked right or left, I glimpsed more than my fellow New York University Student and a face that I had noticed briefly while passing through the Academic Center lounge. I saw more than the tenuous connection between them and me that led us both to choose London as our Study Abroad location of choice. I recognized… another Harry Potter fan.

In addition to the many historic places that we were given an opportunity to visit, NYU also arranged this optional tour of “The Making of Harry Potter” Studios. And to my utter horror, I noticed I was almost crying. While they played a five-minute introductory video about the world phenomenon inspired by these seven books, eight movies, the knowledge of their personal impact on me hit. It’s not just that I am a fan girl of the series: I don’t go to the midnight showings, or play on JK Rowling’s interactive site, Pottermore. I don’t have a wand of my own. But as Harry’s destiny was slowly revealed to him, usually during heart-to-heart talks with Professor Dumbledore, I also started coming into myself.

To other people, this must all seem a little ridiculous, but the proof of their impact is alive in much of my current personality. These were the books that brought me into the world of fantasy; Rowling was the teacher from whom I learned I wanted to write for a living. So many of the other doors that I have climbed through, so many paths that I have chosen to take, were only made available to me by that first decision--- to pick up The Sorcerer’s Stone where it sat on the shelf in the library, going on a decade ago. I try to reverse those years in my head, to see how similar or different my life would be, if I had just passed it by, but I’ve learned it’s impossible to separate the strands of a person’s existence from their experiences, and I got a headache from trying.

All of this helped me come into a realization…. I never believed in the kind of magic that allowed cars to fly and water to turn into rum, but there is something incredible about the way people are able to take small moments, ones almost without significance, and turn them into milestones. On any given day, you might pass someone on the street who will turn out to be your best friend. You might run out of a necessary ingredient and end up creating something new. You might jot down a line that has been echoing through your head over and over again, only to rediscover it later and turn it into a song.

As my classmates and I snapped pictures of Hagrid’s hut and the Gryffindor Common Room, we were not attempting to capture a genuine artifact; instead, we were preserving an emotion from the other side of the camera. We were laying tribute to everything we felt, everything we understand about Harry Potter whether that be his lessons of love, loyalty, fairness, charity, or mercy. We were also recognizing the part our enthusiasm had to play in the magic.

As the holiday season encroaches, and people put on the visible or invisible markers of Santa Claus, I hope that this type of magic abounds. I hope everyone experiences the same wonder, of sharing something with their fellow human beings and admiring them for that. I hope… that everyone has a Very Harry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from The Cancer Association of Darke County

As we celebrate the birth of Christ this Christmas season, we would like to thank all of those who have supported the cancer association of Darke County. With your generous donations and support, we have been able to help the cancer patients of Darke County make a tough time a little more bearable.

We wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas & a Prosperous New Year!

The Cancer Association of Darke County

Sunday, December 23, 2012

"Christmas Celebrations" by Abraham Lincoln

When you blog and visit the blogs of other people on the Internet you discover people are not really that different anywhere in the world.

I saw a version of Santa Claus yesterday in Texel in the Netherlands that I had not seen before. While the name came out something like Santa Claus, it was “Sinterklaas” and the costume was red and decorated in gold and the jolly giant wore a hat that was exactly like the one the Pope wears complete with a cross.

Around him, in the parade on the street, were costumed people, in royal blue garments, with faces painted black. I have no idea what that was all about but there were several white faces painted black in the parade?

People in Africa and Germany and England, and on the Riviera, complain about Christmas coming earlier and earlier every year. They think it is way too commercial and those in our country add that Christmas should not be in the stores before Thanksgiving, but it is. Well, I must agree that Christmas is all about selling inventory before the end of the year to avoid paying inventory taxes on it.

One person showed a Christmas parade his parents got to attend. It was an old black and white photo and the parade looked pretty extravagant to me.

In my reply to his blog post I mentioned that I never heard of any community having a Christmas parade before the War or during World War II.

Commitment Remains to Restoring Grand Lake St. Marys

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

The past three summers in the Grand Lake St. Marys region have not been an ideal situation for our local communities. The constant question on our minds during these winter months is; will the algae be back next year; and will it be less troublesome or more than the past few years? Each year at the lake has been slightly different. However; local and state commitment to working on this issue has never changed.

In the past two and a half years the state has allocated millions of dollars to this issue of state dollars and federal dollars. In addition, locally the Grand Lake St. Marys Restoration Commission has provided a voice for the local people in regards to the lake’s management and future. The Lake Improvement Association has united the lake community for common goals and provided a setting for the community to learn about the water quality issues at the lake.

The agriculture community understands that their methods need to change as a part of the efforts to clean up the lake. Approximately 85% of the qualifying livestock farmers in the Grand Lake St. Mary’s watershed have submitted their nutrient management plans in accordance with the “Watershed in Distress Rules” developed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). One hundred and thirty two local farmers went above the requirements to complete a more detailed comprehensive nutrient management plan. Those farmers should be commended for their willingness to make a commitment to the future of our region.

Senator Faber and I remain committed in the legislative body to providing support for Grand Lake St. Marys. The best support for the lake has been from the local people and that is a testament to the good people that live in Mercer and Auglaize counties. We will work with the individuals on the ground and provide them the tools they need for the future success of the Grand Lake St. Marys.

With reapportionment my office email has changed to rep84@ohiohouse.gov. Please follow this quick URL to complete an online survey and give me your thoughts to guide priorities for the next General Assembly: http://twelio.com/3cg0hb

Advanced Composites, Inc. Spreading Holiday Cheer!

Big Brothers Big Sisters invited to Holiday Celebration

Big Brother volunteer John Cianciolo of Sidney
and his little Shamare Henry, age 10 of Sidney son of
Sara Henry of Sidney
The Holidays are upon us and Advanced Composites, Inc. is at it again spreading the joy of the season in the community. Advanced Composites, Inc. in their generosity contacted Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County to invite four Littles and their Bigs to join their annual Children’s Holiday party. Jumpy’s Fun Zone served as the location for this year’s festivities, as the children participated in jumping in the jump houses, laser tag and playing games. There were smiles to go around for days with all of the fun, and the children were even more excited when Santa showed up.

Mr. & Mrs. Clause were on hand for souvenir pictures and also had a gift for each one of the kids at the party. With Advanced Composites, Inc., a local company, inviting Big Brothers Big Sisters to this event, it was most evident that the true magic of Christmas was present at this Holiday party.

The magic of Christmas continued as Advanced Composites, Inc. made a generous donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County. Big Brother, Jeff Pollard and his wife, Big Sister, Heather Pollard were on-site at the event and gratefully accepted the donation from Advanced Composites, Inc. on behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County. This donation will help to provide match support to those children in need of a mentor and will help to ensure the continued success of the program. Lisa Brown, Executive Director stated, “We were certainly enthused about this wonderful opportunity, not only for our Bigs and Littles but to build partnerships with local companies and the community in general truly helps them to see the impact that Big Brothers Big Sisters is having on the community that they work in”.

For more information on how to be a part of this positive experience individuals can contact the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County office at 937-492-7611 or 937-547-9622 or via email at info@bigbrobigsis-shelby.org.

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Father of Abused Infant Arrested, Mother Summoned

No comments:
On Friday, December 21, 2012 at 10:35 pm, Cody Cantrell, age 21, was arrested at his residence, 740 Greenville Nashville Rd., Greenville, OH by Darke County Sheriffs Office on a warrant for felonious assault and child abuse, both felonies of the second degree. A summons has been issued to Chelsea Hartman, age 20, of Greenville, for child abuse, felony of the third degree.

The case was initiated on November 28, 2012 when a two week old baby came to Dayton Children’s Medical Center with broken legs, a broken arm, swelling and bleeding on the brain, bleeding on the spine, and facial bruising. Greenville Police Investigations Section investigated the case and it was presented to a Darke County Grand Jury resulting in charges.

Cantrell and Hartman are the parents of the baby. The baby has been placed into the custody of the Darke County Children Services and has since been released from Dayton Children’s Medical Center.

Hospice Schedules Grief Support Group

Many people struggle with the long gray days of winter, but for those dealing with grief, those days can seem even darker. State of the Heart Hospice has scheduled adult grief support group sessions in January and February for anyone in the community who needs help dealing with grief and loss.

The meetings will be held each Wednesday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 pm. at the Greenville office, 1350 N. Broadway, The sessions, which are free, begin Wednesday, January 9 and continue through February 13.

“The adult grief support groups offer those experiencing grief to be with other people who feel as they do,” stated Marlene Black, bereavement specialist for State of the Heart and group leader. “People have the opportunity to talk about their grief and feelings of loss. They realize they are not the only ones feeling as they do.”

Bereavement support is an important service provided by State of the Heart Hospice. The non-profit agency offers grief support to adults and children.
State of the Heart also offers a camp for children who are grieving called Camp BEARable.

“Each person handles grief in their own way,” Black explained. “Those who have attended grief support groups in the past say they have found the sessions to be helpful and valuable to them. Many of those who have attended have formed friendships and now have someone they can call who understands their feelings of grief and loss.”

State of the Heart has offices in Greenville, Coldwater and Portland. The agency cares for families and patients in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness. It is necessary to register for the grief support groups. Call Marlene Black at 1-800-417-7535 to register. For more information about the services offered by State of the Heart, visit the web site at www.stateoftheheartcare.org.

Greenville Rotary sends aid to Newtown

The Greenville Rotary Club is sending funds to the Newton, Conn. Rotary Chapter in response to the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

The members of the Newton Rotary Club established a fund dedicated to the victims of the Sandy Hook School tragedy and their families in the community. With the help of both local and national supporters, the club hopes to assist in the town's short term and long term needs.

West Milton Rotary Club President Larry Dehus reached out to the Newton Rotary President and agreed to send a $1,000 donation to help in the town's time of need. He invited other district Rotary Clubs to match his offer, and the Greenville chapter jumped on the chance to lend a hand.

“What the people of Newtown need right now is peace,” said Greenville Rotary President Diane Shuff. “What an incredible opportunity we have been given as a club.”

Rotary International President Sakuji Tanaka declared the year's theme as “Peace Through Service,” which encourages its members to seek personal and community harmony through dedicated service. "Peace is something that we can find and that we can achieve, every day and in many simple ways,” Tanaka said at the 2012 International Rotary Assembly.

The Rotary Foundation funds international humanitarian programs throughout the world, the most famous project being PolioPlus, which has contributed to the global eradication of polio.

For more information about the Newton Rotary Club, please visit http://www.newtownctrotary.org/.

Saint Paul Lutheran Church to Host Last Darke County Blood Drive of the Year

Darke County, Ohio – St. Paul Lutheran Church will host the final Darke County blood drive of the year Thursday, Dec. 27 from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The church is located at 13495 Greenville-St. Mary’s Road. Appointments are encouraged.

Everyone who registers to donate blood will receive a CBC “Blood Donor – Save Lives” knit scarf. The scarlet and grey neck warmer is both practical and stylish and arrives just in time for last-minute gift-gathering.

“This scarf represents a warm ‘thank you’ to everyone who finds the time to donate during this very busy time of year,” said CBC Donor Relations Director Andrew Keelor. “The holidays are always a special challenge, and we count on our donors to always come through.”

Also, everyone who registers to donate now through Jan. 31 will be automatically entered in a drawing to win prizes in the Darke County Days special blood drive campaign. Four winners will be announced at the end of each month. The lucky donors will take home either an iPod Touch, Kindle Fire, Vizio 32-inch TV, or Nikon Cool Pix camera. (Donors can enter the drawing only once during the campaign).

Notice about important changes to CBC’s donor ID system - CBC has assigned new, eight-digit donor identification numbers to all donors. When donors present their current CBC Donor ID card at a CBC branch or mobile drive it will be noted for replacement and the donor will receive a new plastic Donor ID card and key fob card in the mail. Donors must use their new Donor ID number to schedule appointments on www.DonorTime.com.

State of the Heart Hospice to Benefit From Bob Evans Fundraiser December 28-30

State of the Heart Hospice will benefit from a special fundraiser that will be held by Bob Evans Restaurant in Greenville Friday, December 28 through Sunday, December 30. The restaurant, will donate 15 percent of the sales on food items to State of the Heart. The fundraiser starts at 6 a.m. on Friday, and concludes at 10 p.m. on Sunday.

“We research to find the most worthwhile charities for our fundraisers,” explained Bob Evans General Manager Stacy Foster. “We felt State of the Heart was a worthy charity for us to be involved with. The more sales we have during those three days, the better for our business and the more money for State of the Heart.” Bob Evans Restaurant is located at 1366 Wagner Avenue. A flyer “coupon” is needed for the purchase and can be downloaded on the State of the Heart website. Go to: www.stateoftheheartcare.org/bobevans.

With offices in Greenville, Coldwater and Portland, the local non-profit agency provides care to families and patients in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life-limiting illness. “State of the Heart Hospice is proud and pleased to be involved in this fundraiser,” stated Ryan Gathard, Fund Development Director for State of the Heart. “We encourage as many people as possible to support this effort.” Funds will go to patient support. This is the second time that Bob Evans Restaurant has conducted the fund raiser for State of the Heart.

Flyers are being distributed to various businesses and locations in Greenville. It is necessary to present the flyer when you take your bill to the cashier. Flyers are available at the agency office, 1350 N. Broadway. Each bill will have 15 percent directed to State of the Heart. “This includes food served in the restaurant as well as carry-out orders,” Foster explained. Flyers are also at the reception desk at the agency office, 1350 N. Broadway in Greenville. For more information about the fundraiser, call Bob Evans Restaurant at 547-9193, or State of the Heart Hospice at 548-2999.

Darke Elks Gives to Warm Winter Wear

The Darke Elks Benevolence Group recently donated $1500 to the Darke County Warm Winter Wear program.


Pictured are Steve Maitlen, Bob Grim, Chris Lennon & Kim Knick (Warm Winter Wear) and Corky Sharp

Greenville BPW Club Celebrates Christmas!


The Christmas Committee of the Greenville Business & Professional Women’s (BPW) Club hosted the December 13th meeting which was held at the Brethren Retirement Center.

Dara Buchy, Shirley Morrow and Tasha Anderson from the Christmas Committee planned a festive evening. The club was entertained with beautiful Christmas carols sung by Samantha Buchy, Michelle Fannin and Hannah Gulley from the Greenville Junior High School.

This year the local BPW group collected sweat suits for the Domestic Violence Center. The huge stack of clothing was presented to Annie Sonner from the center.

The Club ended the meeting preparing for the Breakfast with Santa that was scheduled for December 15th. Everyone enjoyed wrapping presents that were chosen for all the children listed to attend the breakfast. The gifts were generously donated by the students from the Business Professional Association from Greenville Senior High School. The group’s instructor/advisor is BPW member Dara Buchy.

The Greenville BPW Club’s mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education, and information. The Club holds fund raisers throughout the year to raise money to grant scholarships to the young women of Darke County. The Club meets the second Thursday of every month for a dinner meeting. Those interested in learning more about the club can contact Membership Chair Gail Snyder at 937/423-4854 or gails669@embarqmail.com

Edison Hosting Information Meeting for London Travel Abroad Trip

The Edison Travel Abroad trip to London, England, from March 8-14, 2013, still has a few spots open. Dr. Vivian Blevins will have a meeting in the Founders Room at the Piqua Public Library on January 10 at 7 PM to answer questions about the tour.

Holiday closings

Community Action Partnership will be closed Dec. 25, 2012 and Jan. 1, 2013, in honor of the holiday season. This includes the Senior Meals Program, Metropolitan Housing Authority, and Community Transportation.

Friday, December 21, 2012

Help Wanted at BRC


Join Our Growing Team in 2013!


Brethren Retirement Community is a Christian, not-for-profit, Continuing Care Retirement Community that has provided senior living to Darke County for over 110 years. Recognized as the Best Nursing Home and Assisted Living in Darke County, Brethren Retirement Community’s 45-acre campus includes garden homes, assisted living apartments, skilled nursing care, short-term and outpatient rehabilitation services, non-medical home care, and an adult day care center. BRC prides itself in providing a clean and comfortable home for our residents. We are looking for individuals who are self-motivated & dependable.

At this time, we are hiring the following positions:

Assisted Living Department:
Resident Assistants

  • Part & Full-Time 1st Shift
  • Part & Full-Time 2nd Shift
  • Part-Time 3rd Shift

Nursing Department:
STNA’s

  • Part & Full-Time 1st Shift
  • Part-Time 2nd Shift
  • Part & Full-Time 3rd Shift

Office / Administration:

  • Support Staff Telecommunication Associate Flexible Hours

Environmental Services:

  • Laundry Assistant Full-Time 1st Shift

Please complete an application at our main entrance or visit our website at www.bhrc.org and download an application. We are an equal opportunity employer and an Eden Alternative Facility.

Lighthouse to Host 30th Annual Christmas Dinner for the Darke County Community


“We wanted to give a bicycle for each year we have been serving the Darke County Community at Christmas. Dick [Billenstein] was not sure he could get that many, but he did!” said Pastor Barbara Fee, organizer of the Lighthouse’s Community Christmas Dinner.

The Lighthouse Christian Center has been hosting a Christmas Dinner for the Darke County Community for 29 years, and are set to do the same again this year – making it their 30th anniversary dinner. Those in the community who are in need, either of the food or just companionship on the celebration of Jesus’’Birth are welcome to attend the 11:30 a.m. event at no cost.

“We started this tradition because we felt there was a need in the community. Not only for those who were in need of the food, but also for those who were in need of companionship and fellowship. There are more suicides due to loneliness on Christmas, and we wanted to help those people.” Continued Fee.


Deputies Respond to Burglary in Progress, Two Local Men Arrested

Goodpaster, Bidwell
On Thursday, December 20th, 2012 at approximately 2:35 PM, Darke County Sheriffs Deputies responded to 165 South Main Street in Palestine, OH on a report of a burglary in progress. Witnesses to the crime informed authorities that the door to the residence had been kicked in and Christmas presents were being taken. The witnesses took photographs of the suspects and provided descriptions of them as they fled the scene. The photographs aided deputies in identifying the thieves. The scene of the burglary was secured by deputies as other deputies patrolled the area searching for the suspects on foot. Deputies recovered most of the stolen property near the scene of the crime.

At approximately 4:08 PM one of the adult males was located several miles north of Palestine on foot and taken into custody. At approximately 4:16 PM the other adult male was located in Palestine several blocks away from the scene of the burglary and was taken into custody. The men have been identified as 27 year old Terry Wayne Goodpaster of Wayne Lakes, OH and 35 year old Douglas Allen Bidwell of Ansonia, OH. Both men were arrested and transported to the Darke County Jail where they await arraignment in the Darke County Common Pleas Court on charges of Burglary, a felony of the 2nd degree, and Felony Theft, a felony of the 5th degree, sometime later today.

Most all of the property and presents that were taken have been returned to the family.

Sheriff Toby L. Spencer commends the alert citizens of Darke County in aiding deputies apprehend these men, due to their quick actions, accurate observations and timely reporting of the incident. This is yet another example of how crime can quickly and effectively be resolved which benefits Darke County communities in many ways.

This case remains under investigation by the Darke County Sheriffs Office.

Greenville FFA Donates To Food Pantry


On Wednesday, December 19, 2012 the Greenville FFA donated fruit and canned goods to the Grace Resurrection Center. Pictured from left to right are Thomas Shaw, Mr. John Guttadore, Sharon Sellers(representative from Grace Resurrection Church), Emily Vanhorn, and Sheiann Mead.

GOP Women hear OFRW Officer

Ohio Federation of Republican Women’s Southwest District Vice-president Linda Burke speaks to the Darke County Republican Women’s Club.
“When we work together, we can move mountains, and we need every one of you.” said Ohio Federation of Republican Women’s (OFRW) Southwest District Vice-president Linda Burke when she spoke to the Darke County Republican Women’s Club (DCRWC) recently. “Our local clubs are of course the foundation, but when you move up to the state level you can affect things like helping elect Sharon Kennedy to the Ohio Supreme Court “

“We need to be tending that flame of freedom, and protecting it.” continued Burke and she paraphrased Winston Churchill, “Never, never, never, never give up.”

“It was so nice to have Linda here to speak to our group. We were so happy to host her and hear what is going on with the OFRW.” Said DCRWC President Sally Zeiter.

DCRWC will holds regular monthly meetings on the second Monday of every month, with the exceptions of January and August. Regular meetings are held in the Chestnut Village Center of the Brethren Home Retirement Community.

Dinner is available by prior reservation, at a cost of $7.50 per person. Anyone wishing to join the group at 6:30 p.m. for dinner, prior to the evening's meeting and program, may place reservations by calling or emailing Wavelene Denniston before noon on the Thursday preceding the meeting. Reservations placed are expected to be paid. Wavelene's phone is (937) 547-6477 or she may be emailed at: DCRWReservations@darkegop.org. Those wishing not to dine may arrive before 7 p.m. for the program.

The club is currently on a membership drive and welcomes new members interested in the Darke County community and promoting Republican leadership. Additional information may be obtained by phoning President Sally Zeiter at (937) 423-2391 or she may be emailed at: DCRWPresident@darkegop.org.

Greenville FFA Chapter Members Receive Chapter FFA Degree.


Six members of the Greenville FFA Chapter received the Chapter FFA Degree; the second high school degree awarded by the National FFA Organization This honor recognizes demonstrated knowledge and achievements in agricultural awareness, leadership, career development and community service programs.

To be eligible for the chapter degree, members must be a second year member, have received the Greenhand Degree, have a SAE in progress, participated in chapter activities, led a group discussion for 15 minutes, demonstrated parliamentary procedure, collected 10 hours of community service, and have a satisfactory scholastic record.

The fourteen members received the Degree at a recent meeting at Greenville High School. Each recipient received a Silver FFA emblem pin and a certificate from the local chapter. Those receiving the Chapter degree this year were Tim Ball, Korey Garland, Catherine Gibson, Kiara Davidson, Rachael Schmitmeyer, and Emily Vanhorn.

The FFA operates on local, state and national levels. Student members belong to chapters organized at the local school level. Agricultural education instructors serve as chapter advisors.

FFA is a national youth organization of 577,318 student members preparing for leadership careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture with 7,489 local chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. FFA strives to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education

Darke Elks Gives to Main Street Greenville

The Darke Elks Benevolence Group recently donated $500 to the Main Street Greenville program.


Pictured are Bob Grim, Steve Maitlen, Betty Birt (Main Street Greenville) and Corky Sharp

Thursday, December 20, 2012

A Weekend of Events @ The Coffee Pot!

Friday from 7-9 pm - Melody Line
Local ladies performing all of your favorite Christmas tunes - an evening filled with holiday spirit!


Saturday from 2-4 pm - SANTA!
Bring the kiddos up to see the big guy!


Saturday from 7-9 pm - Adelee & Gentry Gates

Sisters from West Alexandria, OH, who are incredibly talented! They have just released their Christmas album, Waiting for Christmas - which they will be performing and selling the night of their show.


All events are free (please feel free to tip musicians if able to help support local music!) and family friendly! We have a feeling the shop will fill up fast for both music events, please arrive early if you need seating. We hope you can join us!

The Coffee Pot
537 S. Broadway
Suite 101
Greenville, OH
937-459-5498

David Conner-1812 Trader

Running a trading post on the Mississineway in the spring of 1812 was hard work! Keeping the stock up and keeping your customers happy kept one busy. Step back in time 200 years and join Darke County Parks on Saturday, January 5th at 1:00pm as we welcome a traveling merchant to the Log House (or Nature Center if weather doesn’t permit) as he tells us tales of his trading post. Please be sure to pre-register so we know how many to expect by calling the Nature Center at 937.548.0165.

For more information on all of the programs offered by the Darke County Parks, visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org

FFA Members Receive Greenhand Degree


Twenty four members of the Greenville FFA Chapter received the Greenhand FFA Degree, the first high school degree awarded to members of the National FFA Organization. This honor recognizes demonstrated knowledge and achievements in agricultural awareness, leadership, and career development and community service programs. To be eligible for this degree, you must be a first year member, know the creed and motto, understand the code of ethics, and know how to properly wear the FFA Jacket, know the meaning the FFA Emblem and Colors, and have knowledge of the organization’s history

The members received the Degree at a special meeting held for inducting the new Greenhands into the Greenville FFA Chapter. Each recipient receives a Bronze FFA emblem pin and a certificate from the local chapter. Those receiving the Greenhand degree this year included Sam Ball, Kyle Carlisle, Daniel Cline, Kamryn Coppock, Kelsey Crandall, Noah Ellerman, Bryan Flory, Bradley Garber, Brady Garber, Nelson Roberts, Hannah Smith, Judge Welbaum, Nicole Garland, Sara Gibboney, Dylan Kolb, Dalton Mayer, Olivia McDade, Aaron Miniard, Spencer Monnin, Victoria Nader, Ryan Ramsey, Patrick Schmitmeyer, Jena Snyder, and Matthew Wooten.

The FFA operates on local, state and national levels. Student members belong to chapters organized at the local school level. Agricultural education instructors serve as chapter advisors.

FFA is a national youth organization of 557,318 student members preparing for leadership careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture with 7,489 local chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. FFA strives to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

Darke Elks Gives to Community Unity Food Bank

The Darke Elks Benevolence Group recently donated $500 to the Community Unity Food Bank.


Pictured are Steve Maitlen, Bob Grim, Jim Morehouse (Community Unity Food Bank) and Corky Sharp

Farming in Darke County Part 3

Darke County Farmers are preparing their farms and homes for the Christmas season. This can happen in many ways, from getting the Christmas tree out of the attic to going to the tree farm and cutting their own.

Farmers across the county provide what we need to put the finishing touches on the festivities of the season. Christmas hams and turkeys have left the farm and have made their way through the processors. Christmas trees have been cut and decorated in our living rooms. The steer has been taken to the butcher and the roast beef has been ground and combined with apples from the orchard to make mom’s awesome mince meat pie.

On Christmas Eve you may see many farm families going to the barn and selecting a bale of prime alfalfa hay and a bucket of golden corn to put out for Santa’s reindeer as they make their pass through the night.

Christmas morning brings much excitement to farm families. Children may have to be asked to return to bed several times before the parents rise for the morning milking at 5:00 a.m. There are chores to be done on the livestock farms before the wrapping paper can be disturbed. Cows to be milked, pigs to be fed, steers to be bedded, eggs gathered and packed, turkeys to be checked on and maybe a father stalling to make the excitement last all day.


Union City Resident Hired By State of the Heart Hospice

Karen Abel
Karen S. Abel of Union City, Ohio has been hired as an LPN by State of the Heart Hospice. She will work from the nonprofit agency’s Greenville office. With other offices in Coldwater and Portland, State of the Heart cares for patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness.

She has been an LPN for 27 years and has worked several years in long term care. She said she witnessed hospice nurses coming to the nursing home where she worked. “I thought they did a great job,” she said. “I believe in what hospice does and have always wanted to work for State of the Heart.”

She is a member of the Harrisville Congregational Church where she is the assistant pianist and organist for the church. In her spare time, she also enjoys gardening. She and her husband Randy are the parents of four children.

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

Local FFA Officers Installed


Recently the Greenville FFA held a special ceremony for the installation of the 2012 officers of the Greenville FFA Chapter. The 2012 FFA President Alyssa Garber, and Sentinel Molly Magato installed the new 2013 officer team into office. The new 2013 officers installed were President; Patrick Garber, 1st Vice President; Emily Vanhorn, 2nd Vice President; Thomas Shaw, Reporter; Sheiann Mead, Secretary; Rachael Schmitmeyer, Sentinel; Olivia McDade, Treasurer; Kiara Davidson, And student Advisor; Dylan Kolb.

State FFA District 5 Secretary, Craig Berning, brought greetings from the Ohio FFA Association and the State FFA Officer Team and was introduced as the featured speaker for the evening and he addressed members and parents in attendance. His comments directed to the members attending encouraged each of them to continue to make and pursue their goals, both in their personal lives and as FFA members. He told them that many good things will come to them through their involvement in the FFA if they would set their goals high and work hard to achieve those goals.

Principal Ken Neff , brought greetings from the school administration and FFA Alumni President Allan Keaser also addressed those in attendance.

The newly elected officers will lead the Greenville FFA Chapter until the year 2014. Following the meeting, parents and members enjoyed a dessert buffet of favorite goodies brought by each family. Also included in the evening’s activities was the collection of canned goods for the needy.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Judge Jason Aslinger Appointed to Two Committees

The Ohio Judicial Conference has named Probate/Juvenile Judge Jason Aslinger to two of its standing committees.

Aslinger will serve on the Judicial Ethics & Professionalism Committee. This committee reviews the ethical guidelines that govern judges, advocates for improvements in those guidelines, and serves as a resource to help judges resolve problems that concern those guidelines and judicial ethics more broadly.

Aslinger will also serve on the Public Confidence and Community Outreach Committee. This committee promotes activities that instill public confidence in the Ohio judiciary by helping judges educate the general public about the function and operation of the state's judicial system.

The Ohio Judicial Conference was formed in 1963, and its purpose is: to study the co-ordination of the work of the several courts of Ohio; to encourage uniformity in the application of the law, rules, and practice throughout the state and within each division of the courts as an integral part of the judicial system of the state; to promote an exchange of experience and suggestions respecting the operation of the judicial system; and to consider the business and problems pertaining to the administration of justice and to make recommendations for its improvement.

Jason Aslinger has served as Darke County Probate/Juvenile Judge since April 2011.

Commissioner's Corner - December 2012

As this is written, it is in the middle of the Holiday season. Thanksgiving is over, Christmas is just a week away, and soon the New Year will be upon us. The year has gone by more quickly than any of us would like, but time marches on and we must march with it. This past weekend the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut reminded all of us that life is precious, fleeting, and to be enjoyed to it’s fullest every day. We never know what tomorrow brings.

With that in mind, this column will be a little different. These columns are written for two major purposes: (1) is to inform Darke County as to what is happening around Darke County, and (2) is to try and highlight all the good that is happening in the County. Every newspaper in the country makes its living by reporting the bad news. Bad news sells. I for one am sick of all the negativity that goes on in our lives. As a matter of choice, I try to accentuate the positive believing that being positive is contagious, and bears better fruit in the long run. Let the papers and T.V do doom and gloom, I want this column to be a breath of fresh air, untainted by negativity.

Darke County has many things to be thankful for this past year. The State of Ohio has gone from 48th in job creation to 4th in the nation, and we are the ONLY Midwestern State on the list. Our Representatives and Senators are in powerful positions in the State House and communicate with us routinely, not only as public officials but as friends also. Darke County has been recognized in National publications as one of the best at creating jobs. The Dayton Development coalition recognizes that Darke County has led the region in job production. Our unemployment rate is one of the lowest in the State. Greenville was recognized as one of the best small towns in the State to live in. Greenville was also recognized by Site Selectors Magazine as one of the best Micropolitans (towns under 25,000 people) in the COUNTRY! The Daily Advocate has won a National Award, (a photo showing the Great Darke County Fair, one of the best in the country), competing against the leading newspapers in the country. Our schools continue to improve educationally, and the economy in Darke County, led by agriculture again, is one of the best in the State. Housing continues to improve, foreclosures are slowing, and our County Sales tax is up slightly lending to the notion that we continue on the rise.


Greenville FFA donates to Toys For Tots


On Tuesday December 18, 2012, Greenville FFA Officers went to K-Mart with money from their chapter to purchase toys to donate for the local Toys for Tots program. Pictured above from left to right are: Sheiann Mead, Emily Vanhorn, Patrick Garber, Rachael Schmitmeyer, and Thomas Shaw.

TWO PEOPLE ARRESTED FOLLOWING HOME INVASIONS

On December 17, 2012, the Greenville Police Department responded to reports of three home invasions that occurred between 8:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Following the last home invasion, a witness observed a male suspect running through her yard carrying her TV. The suspect threw the TV down and entered a vehicle that fled the area.

Officers located the vehicle in the 4000 block of Arcanum-Bear’s Mill Rd. Following a short investigation, 21 year old Leroy Brock Crawford and 27 year old Michael D. Brown were arrested for Burglary. Brown also had an outstanding arrest warrant. Officers recovered property that was stolen from one of the home invasions in the vehicle. Crawford and Brown were both taken to the Darke County Jail.

On December 18, 2012 both subjects were arraigned in Darke County Common Pleas Court and their bond was set at $30,000 each.

Anyone having information regarding the other burglaries is asked to contact the Greenville Police Department at (937) 548-1103.

17th Year of Community Grants Benefit Local Parks

Pictured from Left to Right are the 2012 Community Grant Recipients: Steve Shaltry, Darke County Park District Commissioner, Tom Welbaum, Ansonia, Larry Green, Gettysburg, Joe Wagner, North Star, Dan Howe, Rossburg, Marcia Kiser and Barb Long, Union City, Rodd Hale, Versailles, Gary Young, Wayne Lakes, Roger Van Frank, Director of Darke County Park District, Dan Schipfer, Darke County Park District Commissioner
Darke County Parks is thrilled to announce another cycle of Community Grants have been awarded for the 2012 grant cycle. The Community Parks Improvement Program began as one of the promises to the residents of Darke County upon successfully passing a levy in 1994 and the renewal of that Levy in 2003, to allow for expansion of services and facilities. Over the past 17 years, the Park District has returned $625,181.60 to 21 different villages and cities in Darke County.

Each year a board of six members, including the Darke County Park District Board of Commissioners, meet to determine what grants will be awarded. Applications focus on addressing health and safety factors in each community and applicants are awarded based on need. The Community Grants program is a re-imbursement grant program and the villages are notified in June if they have received the requested grant. The re-imbursement takes place in December of each year after the project has been completed. A variety of projects have been funded, from bleachers, playground equipment, shelter houses to restroom facilities, picnic tables, slides, repairs of electrical service, and much more have all been funded through this program.

Director of Parks, Roger Van Frank stated, “The Darke County Park District is dedicated to improving active recreational services and facilities in your local community. These partnerships formed between Darke County communities and the Park District have been successful in creating safe and healthy environments for children and families to utilize all over the County.” For more information contact your Local Park Council or call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165, ask for the Director or email director@darkecountyparks.org .

ONCE LITTLE SISTER NOW MAKING IMPACT AS BIG SISTER

Amber and McKenzie smile as they enjoy their time
together at the 2012 Big Brothers Big Sisters Holiday party
at Bel-Mar Lanes in Sidney, OH.
Though it seems like not long ago Amber Couchot was involved as a Little in the Big Brother Big Sisters program, she has now transitioned into a Big in the same program. Amber has a love for children and wants to make a positive impact in their lives. Having experienced the positive impact Big Brothers Big Sisters had on Amber as a child, she felt compelled to become a Big as an adult. Amber spoke highly of the program saying, “Big Brothers Big Sisters had a big impact on me as a kid. It allowed me to build a bond with another adult that emotionally supported me. I came from a single parent home and having a Big Sister helped me just get out and have fun and be myself.”

The belief Amber has in the program has led to her interaction with a Little since 2008! Amber now enjoys spending time with her Little, McKenzie Leiss, and giving back to the organization that gave so much to her as a child. They enjoy activities that include swimming, going to the movies, making dinner and going to the park. No matter what they are doing, the time spent together is part of a positive, nourishing relationship that is rewarding for the Big and Little. “The most rewarding part of being a Big is just spending time with my Little. We have a lot of fun together and I enjoy talking to her and spending time with her,” Amber says of her time spent with McKenzie.


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