Sunday, June 30, 2013

Buchy Announces Ohio Taxpayers Win Big in Tax Reform Compromise

More Than $2.7 Billion in Tax Relief

When Governor Kasich proposed tax reform as part of the Ohio’s biennial budget in February, Ohioans were cautiously optimistic. The Governor’s proposals were bold and with the help of the state legislature tax reform has been achieved.

The tax reform we are discussing today is much different than originally proposed by Governor Kasich, but the same principle is intact. Ohioans need a break on their income tax. In Ohio, we are taxed on the things we buy, the things we own, and the income we bring home. Our tax system is not competitive; many economists agree reducing the personal income tax will aide in Ohio’s economic recovery. Please let Representative Buchy know what you think by completing the taxpayer’s survey.

The final plan is the result of compromise between state leaders. The House of Representatives passed the budget with an across-the-board personal income tax break, while the Senate favored a tax break that spurs economic growth by focusing relief on small business owners. After many hours of deliberations each side joined together for tax reform that increases transparency and adjusts Ohio’s total taxing system in a way that favors economic growth. The best part of the plan is that Ohioans will experience a $2.7 Billion tax relief on their next tax bill. You can share the taxpayer’s survey by directing friends and family to tinyurl.com/taxpayerssurvey

Below are detailed bullet points on each part of this package:

Planning has begun for the 10th Annual Hometown Holiday Horse Parade

Main Street Greenville is excited for the 10th Annual Hometown Holiday Horse Parade!

Though it is only June, plans are already taking shape for the 2013 Hometown Holiday Horse Parade slated for Saturday, November 23rd at 7 pm in Downtown Greenville. This annual tradition for the Greenville community has kicked off the holiday season for the downtown district the past nine years and we are thrilled to celebrate its 10th year!

The lighted event boosts 50 + horse entries which bring an estimated 8,000+ spectators into the downtown area. Since the first parade in 2004, Main Street Greenville has been coordinating the event with great assistance from numerous volunteers within the community. This year is no different as many groups and individuals passionate about horses and the festive atmosphere of the parade are stepping up to make this an even more hometown tradition.

Are you interested in volunteering to assist with this event? Our committee is looking for local individuals, families, or groups who are willing to help. Along with many other community-minded sponsors, the parade is able to take place. Interested in being a volunteer or a sponsor? Please contact Amber Garrett, director of Main Street Greenville, at 937.548.4998 or agarrett@mainstreetgreenville.org for more information.

WHIO: Darke County Parents Indicted in Daughter's Death

WHIOtv.com's Steve Baker filed a report on a Darke County couple who were indicted this week for charges related to the death of their 16 month old daughter in February.

Scott Webber and his wife Lauren Jones, both 28, are each facing 1 charge of involuntary manslaughter and 1 charge of child endangerment after allegedly giving the girl an adult strength sleep aid, leading to her death.

Click on the image below to watch the report by Steve Baker at WHIOtv.com


New Madison to Host July 4th Celebration

The New Madison 4th of July Committee invites you to celebrate Independence Day with us! Events begin on Wednesday, July 3 at 4 p.m. at the New Madison Civic Center and the evening’s activities will include vendor booths, a cornhole tournament, the Little Mr. and Little Miss Firecracker pageant and food and beverages provided by the New Madison Civic Center organization. Events on July 4 will include a pancake breakfast, wiffle ball tournament, greased pig contest, petting zoo, dog show, volleyball tournament, cornhole tournament, chicken supper and various vendor booths and games. The parade begins at 3 p.m. and the greatest fireworks show in Darke County begins at 10 p.m. behind the Tri-Village School. For a full schedule of events, visit www.newmadison4thofjuly.org.

Parade Information:

The New Madison 4th of July parade will be held on Thursday, July 4 at 3:00 pm along Main Street in New Madison. Any organization or individual interested in participating in the parade can line up on Anderson Street between 2:00 and 2:15 pm and parade information sheets will be filled out at that time. If you have questions, you may contact Tom Farmer, New Madison 4th of July Committee President at 937-996-0092.

Soccer Skills Challenge Presented by Dave Knapp and Darke County Soccer is Today!


AT&T Prime Communications is Moving into the Old Blockbuster Location

You may have noticed some activity in the remaining portion of the building that once served as Greenville's location for Blockbuster video. One half was rented out a few months ago and the second half has been under construction for the last couple of weeks or so.

AT&T Prime Communications, an AT&T authorized retailer, will be moved in and plans to open very soon. They currently operate in the plaza behind the new location, at 1371 Wagner Avenue. Accoridng to store manager Jeremy Manalo, the new location will allow expanded service offerings like new tablet offerings from Apple and Android, a new home phone service that is unlimited for $20 a month, and they are gauging interest in offering phone and tablet classes and learning sessions (if you're interested in this, please email Jeremy at jmanalo@att.primecomms.com.

Upon reopening, the store's new hours will be Monday through Friday: 10am - 8pm, Saturdays 10am - 7pm, and Sundays from 12pm - 6pm.

Follow Prime Mobile's Greenville location on Facebook by clicking here and "liking" their page.

Darke County Park's Grant Program to Award more than $24k to Local Communities


This past week the Darke County Park District’s Community Park Improvements Grant committee met to review the 2013 grant applications. Over the past 18 years this grant program has awarded up to $50,000 annually to Darke County’s local community parks to purchase land, build and upgrade restrooms, shelter houses and other facilities and install and upgrade playground equipment and other items needed for families to enjoy in park areas near their homes around the county. Over $626,000 has been awarded to Darke County’s local villages and city.

This year applications received from the city of Greenville, along with the Villages of Ansonia, Gettysburg, New Weston, North Star, Osgood, Palestine, Rossburg, Union City, Versailles and Wayne Lakes will receive $24,973.84 to upgrade and improve their community park facilities with such projects as replacing broken or unsafe playground or ball diamond equipment, repairing shelter houses and replacing old dugouts and fences and installing or replacing security lighting. Your Darke County Parks is proud of the history of the Community Parks Improvement Grants Program!

If you would like any additional information about this program please call our office and ask for Deb Shiverdecker, Office Manager or Roger Van Frank, Director at (937)548-0165. Thank you for supporting more wonderful community assets through YOUR Darke County Park District.

Summer Concert On-the-Lawn: Higgins-Madewell

Darke County Parks is proud to present, Higgins-Madewell on Saturday, July 20th at 7:00pm at Shawnee Prairie Preserve Outdoor Amphitheatre (4267 State Route 502 West).

The music of Higgins-Madewell is a combination of strong vocals, acoustic guitar and heartfelt original lyrics that is difficult to classify as one specific genre. Their original music ranges from country to a soulful rock sound and appeals to a broad range of people. Higgins-Madewell’s versatility, professionalism and genuine love for the audience is apparent.

Don’t miss this FREE, must-see concert! Bring a blanket or lawn chair.

For more information call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165 or visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org

State of the Heart Hospice & Zechar Bailey Funeral Home to Offer Grief Support Meetings in Greenville

Losing a loved one can be one of life’s most difficult experiences. Often, those grieving need help dealing with their loss. State of the Heart Hospice is offering adult grief support meetings beginning Wednesday, July 17 and concluding Wednesday, August 21. The sessions are free and are open to anyone in the community.
This is the first time for the Greenville office of State of the Heart to “partner” with a local funeral home. The hospice bereavement team is partnering with Zechar Bailey Funeral home for the Growing Through Grief sessions. It is not necessary to be associated with hospice care and one need not have any association with the local funeral home. The meetings will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the State of the Heart office in Greenville, 1350 N. Broadway which is across the street from Zechar Bailey Funeral Home.

“Those who have attended our grief support meetings find them helpful,” said Marlene Black, hospice bereavement specialist who will conduct the meetings assisted by staff from Zechar Bailey. “Sometimes people are reluctant to attend, but once they begin coming to the meetings, they look forward to them. We find that those who attend are pleased that they made the effort to get to the first meeting.”

The benefit of the meetings, she added, “is that those attending find there are others experiencing grief just as they are. They find they are not alone in their grief, and they begin talking and sharing their feelings about loss. In many instances, friendships are formed.”


DARKE COUNTY JULY BLOOD DRIVES ANNOUNCED!

CLASSIC HARLEY GIVEAWAY PART OF AMBITIOUS CBC SUMMER CAMPAIGN


DAYTON, Ohio – Get your Gover running and head out on the highway, chasing the dream of owning a sparkling new, black and chrome Road King Classic motorcycle from Gover Harley Davidson. This 775-pound hunk of hurtling horsepower is the grand prize in Community Blood Center’s (CBC) “King of the Road Summer Blood Drive” campaign.

CBC has partnered again with Gover Harley Davidson in Piqua and REACH Magazine to present a dream machine for one very lucky blood donor. Everyone who registers to donate blood at any CBC Donor Center or mobile blood drive beginning Tuesday, May 28 through Saturday, Aug. 31 will be automatically entered in the drawing to win the Road King.

Ten computer-selected finalists will be invited to a special envelope-opening announcement event in September to discover the Road King winner. (Must be 18 to win. Official rules available at www.givingblood.org ).

Everyone who registers to donate during the summer months will receive a free “King of the Road Summer Blood Drive” t-shirt. CBC will kick-off the campaign with the first t-shirt design, offered Tuesday, May 28 through Saturday, July 13. (A second design will follow July 15 through Aug. 31).

The first t-shirt is orange with a black emblem, the classic Harley Davidson colors. The center of the design is a Route “56” road sign (a play on the original U.S. Highway, Route 66, with the reminder that you can donate blood every 56 days).

Harley Davidson wings flank the top of the Route 56 road sign, and two Road King motorcycles are depicted below. The road sign reads “King of the Road Blood Donor – Summer 2013” and below it are the CBC blood drop log and the Gover Harley Davidson logo.


Anticipating a Great Wheat Harvest

I have looked at a lot of fields of corn, soybean and wheat in the last two weeks as I have checked our Western Bean Cutworm traps and checked on our Manure Side Dress research plots. The corn and beans for the most part look great. I am concerned with weed pressure in some fields as it appears that our population of resistant marestail and giant ragweed continues to expand.

Pierce Paul, OSU Extension Crops Disease Specialist, reports that we are quickly approaching the end of what will likely end up being a very good season for wheat production. So far only very low levels of diseases, pests and other problems have been reported, and post-pollination conditions have been excellent for grain development. Powdery mildew, and Septoria and Stagonospora leaf blotch all remained low and restricted to the leaves below the flag leaf in most fields. Recent reports coming in from across the state indicate that the levels of head scab are also low this season, with only a few fields reporting about 5 to 10% incidence (5-10 heads out of every 100 heads showing symptoms of scab). This is very consistent with the predictions made by the scab forecasting system and is likely due to the fact that in spite of relatively frequent rainfall this season, conditions remained cool throughout the critical flowering and early grain development growth stages in most areas.

Wheat harvest is just getting started in southern Ohio, will likely start in Darke County next week and continue across the state over the next three weeks. Contrary to the hot and dry conditions observed in 2012, which shorted the grain-fill period considerable, the 2013 wheat season has been relatively cool with good moisture during the weeks following anthesis. Typically grain-fill in Ohio lasts about 15 to 21 days, and poor growing conditions usually limit productivity to about three bushels per acre per day. However, when disease levels are low and conditions are cool during the month of June, the grain-fill period may be as long as 30 to 45 days and productivity could exceed three bushels per acre per day. Moreover, low scab incidence usually means low vomitoxin contamination of the grain. So, together, low disease levels, low grain contamination with vomitoxin, extended grain-fill, and high productivity may result in high yields and test weights and excellent grain quality in 2013.


Saturday, June 29, 2013

A Star Spangled Sunday at Trinity

This Sunday June 30th will mark a celebration of America’s Birthday. Patriotic Hymns will be sung and Pastor Bob will offer another stirring message of hope for all of God’s people. An attended nursery is available along with a Children’s Sermon to include all.

Following worship our Fellowship time will take on a picnic theme with our famous Hot Dog Bar and other picnic favorites.

Please join us and wear your casual red, white and blue, as we reflect on God’s continuing blessings on our nation. We will look forward to welcoming you!

Trinity is at the corner of Steffen and Wood Streets, Versailles with worship at 10:30 p.m.

Heartland of Greenville to Host Brunch & Learn

Heartland of Greenville’s monthly Brunch & Learn will be held on Wednesday, July 10, 2013 at 10:00 am in our East Dining Room. This month’s topic, “Making a Simple Arrangement,” will feature florist Katie Netzley from The Flower Patch. Attendees will learn how to make a simple floral arrangement from items readily available in your home and garden. The public is invited to attend and a free brunch will be provided. Please call 548-3141 with any questions.

Heartland of Greenville is located at 243 Marion Drive, Greenville, Ohio.

Friday, June 28, 2013

Photography Exhibit to Shine Light on Main Street Greenville

GREENVILLE, Ohio - The 2013 Main Street Greenville volunteer interns are thrilled to present This is Main Street - A Photography Exhibit on Wednesday, July 10, 2013 from 5:00 – 9:30 p.m. at The Bistro Off Broadway (117 E. Fifth St.).

This is Main Street will serve as a final project to be used as a portfolio piece for interns, Amy Barger, Brealyn Eckstein and Sean Wolfe from their Main Street Greenville internship experience. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet the new Main Street Greenville Executive Director, Amber Garrett.

Amy, a 2008 graduate from Greenville High School, is majoring in photography at Columbia College in Chicago. With a strong interest in photojournalism, her focus for the exhibit will be the people of downtown Greenville and their stories. Brealyn, a 2010 graduate from Greenville High School, is majoring in photography at Ball State University. With a strong interest in fashion photography, her focus for the exhibit will be fine art images of our downtown district. Sean, also a 2010 graduate from Greenville High School, is majoring in Public Relations at Ball State University. With a strong interest in event planning and marketing, her focus for the exhibit has been organizing and promoting the event.

This event will serve as a fundraiser for Main Street Greenville, a non-profit organization committed to stimulating and supporting revitalization, historic preservation, and economic growth in Historic Downtown Greenville. Guests who attend This is Main Street will have the opportunity to purchase dinner and drinks at The Bistro (tickets aren’t required to enjoy dinner with The Bisto during the event), with 10% of each bill going toward Main Street Greenville. Additionally, all photos displayed will be available for purchase with proceeds going back to the organization.

Tickets for This is Main Street are $7 (children 12 & under are free) and are available for purchase before the event online at www.regonline.com/thisismainstreet or at various downtown businesses including, AAA, The A&B Coffee & Cake Co., Hallmark, Montage and Boutique on Broadway.

We hope you can join us to support the creativity of three young people who chose to give back to their community this summer!

Ticks on the Rise!

Is that a Tick?! Of all the summer pests, ticks tend to be the most hated. Can they jump from trees? Do they carry diseases? How do you get those darned things off?!

Join the Darke County Parks and we’ll spend the evening indoors discovering all the tick species found in Ohio. We will also discuss how we can still enjoy the outdoors while protecting ourselves at the same time.

This program is FREE and will occur on Monday, July 15 at 7:00pm at Shawnee Prairie Preserve (4267 State Route 502 West). For more information, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165 or visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org


Attention Cancer Survivors. There is still time to register for this year’s Relay For Life.

You can still register for this year’s Relay For Life event taking place at Versailles Heritage Park on July 19th to July 20th.

Please complete and mail the Survivor form by July 10th to:

JOYCE JOHNSON
PO BOX 353
GETTYSBURG, OHIO 45328

The opening ceremonies starts @ 6:00 P.M., with survivors walking the first lap and their caregivers joining them for the second lap. There will be a meal after the second lap when survivors and one caregiver are gathered in the large survivor tent.

There will be a lot of activities at each of the team tens as well as in the area beside the small Survivor tent. Come join the fun and excitement as we celebrate! Remember! And Fight Back!

Any questions, please contact Joyce Johnson Survivor/Caregiver chair 937-621-4848 or go to www.cancer.org & www.relayforlife.org/darkecounty

Reforming Medicaid to Reduce Government Dependency

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

Ronald Reagan was addressing the National FFA when he said, “The ten most dangerous words in the English language are, ‘Hi, I’m from the government and I’m here to help.’ In a way, he was poking fun at the inability of government to properly handle everyday situations better handled by individuals. But the more serious implication is that we, as Americans, prefer to pull ourselves up by our bootstraps in the tough times. That’s why Medicaid reform needs to focus on reforming dependents into independents.

We want to provide the best services to our citizens at the lowest possible cost. To achieve this goal, we are weighing all of our options and keeping dialogue with the public open. The options being considered range from enrolling Medicaid recipients into private sector health plans, and to providing job training for those able-bodied on Medicaid to join the workforce.

Some of the measures being considered can be agreed upon by many parties, such as limiting the ability of drug abusers to receive treatment. Another concept that I am speaking with decision makers on is plugging the Medicaid system into faith-based clinics. Limiting care to those who need it and have the intention of improving their situation will result in a lower cost to the taxpayer.

West central Ohio is the best place in the world to live, work, and rear a family. We know how to get the job done and help our neighbors through difficult times. Reforming Medicaid is an opportunity to get the able-bodied back to work and producing again.

Please inform me of your opinion on current topics by completing a survey at tinyurl.com/buchyjune. Thank you for your continued communication. Your feedback helps guide our legislative priorities.

Daffy Derby and Duck N’ Run Winners Announced

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby and Darke County held their annual Daffy Duck Derby and 5K on Thursday, June 20rd, starting at 7:30 p.m. in Tawawa Park in Sidney.

Over 2,997 rubber ducks, which were “adopted” by community members and local corporate sponsors, were launched out of a box which was extended over the creek with the aid of a Ferguson Construction crane. The wonderful sponsors for this event included Sidney Daily News, Hits 105.5, Kroger’s, Meyer’s Garage, Sidney Body Carstar, Trupointe Cooperative, Koenig Equipment Inc., Dave Russell, CPA, LLC, Alvetro Orthodontics, Culvers, Freshway Foods, The Anderson Ethanol LLC, Hemmelgarn Services, Inc., Versailles Savings & Loan, KTH Parts Industries, Reliable Business Solutions, Inc., MJS Plastics Inc., Johnston Chiropractic Clinic, Inc., Sidney Foodtown, Tooling Technology, LLC, Tipp City, Upper Cervical Health Center, McCrate DeLaet & Co, Wendey’s, Piazza Hut, Beechwood Golf Course, J. Robert Schweitzer Insurance, Hansbarger, City Carry Out, Out West Drive Thru, Ron & Nita’s, 47 Bar and Grill, Jt’s, New Port Aquarium, Kitchenaid Experience, Marco’s Pizza, Cincinnati Reds, Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken, Columbus Crew, COSI, Francis Schulze Co., Beau Townsend Ford, GZK, Inc, The Westin Cincinnati, Sidney Inn & Conference Center, Angie Wagner Photography, Keller Grain & Feed, Inc., Gillespie Construction, Best One Tire, Inn Between, Hot Rods & Harley’s.

Overall 11 prizes were awarded for the Duck Derby. The grand prize winner for the duck race was Stacy McClain ¬¬¬of Sidney. Stacy won a $1,000 shopping spree.


Computer Classes at Library

A new series of free computer classes starts at the Greenville Public Library in July. These classes are very popular and open to anyone who wishes to sign up. If you’ve already taken them you’re free to do so again. Stephanie St. Myers is the instructor. She’s easy to follow, patient, and a whiz on the computer.

There are three classes in a series: Basic Computer; Internet; and Email. Each class lasts a couple hours. One series runs three Monday mornings in a row: July 8th, July 15th, and July 22nd. The time is 10:00 a.m. to noon.

Another series runs three Thursday after-noons in a row: July 11th, July 18th, and July 25th. The time is 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

You may sign up for any or all of these classes. Just call the Library at 548-3915 or stop in at the Reference Desk on the second floor. The computer room is on the second floor as well. Take-home notes will be distributed so you don’t need to bring anything but yourself!

WHIO: Child Rape Suspect Posts Bond, is Released

WHIO reports that a man awaiting trial after being indicted on charges of rape and gross sexual imposition has been released from custody after posting bail.

Paul Jessup of Union City, Indiana was indicted earlier this week on four counts of rape and six counts of gross sexual imposition, and his bond was set at $50,000. According to WHIO, the alleged victims are two female children.

Click here to read the story at WHIOtv.com

Attend Old Fashioned Family Picnic and "Help Deb Breathe Easier"

Click to enlarge
On Sunday, July 7, Deb Davidson-Smith’s family and friends invite the community to attend an Old Fashion Family Picnic in New Madison, Ohio to raise money to assist in the costs incurred during her recovery from a lung transplant at Cleveland Clinic. The Old Fashioned Family Picnic will be held at Tri-Village School on Sunday, July 7 from noon-5pm. The benefit committee has many family friendly activities planned for the afternoon including: Car Cruise-In for LIFE sponsored by Hittle Buick GMC, food by New Madison Kiwanis Club, silent auction & raffle, 50/50 raffle, T-shirt sale, local “celebrity” bake-off, Sweet Things in Life bake sale, balloon launch sponsored by Lefeld Welding, and a team relay competition. A musical entertainment segment that features local talent and accomplished students will close the afternoon from 3pm-5pm. The benefit will also celebrate the life-saving power of organ donation.

Deb received her life saving lung transplant on June 2 at Cleveland Clinic. In November of 2011, Deb was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Pulmonary fibrosis is an incurable scarring of the lungs that makes the lung tissue stiff. The only treatment is lung transplantation. After spending 10 days in the hospital in February of 2012, Deb began working with doctors at Cleveland Clinic to be put on the lung transplant list for either a single or double lung transplant. She was put on the list in August of 2012 and spent 10 months on the list before receiving a call just after 1am on June 2, 2013 that resulted in a successful transplant of a left lung that afternoon.

Deb had been recovering at a remarkable rate, but recently experienced a set-back and had to be re-admitted to Cleveland Clinic’s hospital for treatment for an infection and a small bout of acute rejection. She is currently being treated and expected to continue her recovery. Her family and friends would like to celebrate her remarkable journey, as well as raise money to help cover her medical bills, prescription costs and travel costs to & from the Cleveland Clinic. A savings account has been set-up at Farmers State Bank to accept donations for the benefit; contributions can be made at any Farmers State Bank location to the account “Benefit for Deborah Davidson-Smith.” For more information, or to contact a committee member, please visit: www.facebook.com/HelpingDebBreatheEasier.

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Driver Cited in Two Car Injury Crash at 36 and Jaysville-St. Johns Road

On June 27, 2013 at approximately 11:37 AM Darke County Deputies along with Greenville Township Fire, and Greenville Township Rescue, responded to the intersection of US RT 36 and Jaysville-St. Johns Road on a report of an injury crash.

Preliminary investigation revealed a blue 2006 GMC Sierra pick up truck, driven by Gary L. Harman 55, Arcanum, Ohio was traveling South on Jaysville-St. Johns Road and stopped at the stop sign at the intersection of US RT 36, then pulled into the intersection and was struck by a tan 2004 Toyota Camry driven by Frederick A. Williams 55, Greenville, Ohio. Mr. Williams and his front passenger Rhonda Williams 61, were transported to Wayne HealthCare in Greenville for minor injuries, and rear passenger Andrew Spencer 6, for precautionary reasons.

Gary L. Harman was issued a citation for failure to yield from a stop sign.

Commissioner's Corner - June 2013

Summertime in Darke County is always a fun time. The kids are out of school, almost every village, town or city has a festival or something going on, swimming pools and swimming spots are busy, the crops are planted and looking pretty good, and best of all the sun is shining. So far, the weather seems to be really co-operating with us, so let’s pray it continues for a few more months, anyway.

Summertime also means busy times here in the Commissioner’s office. We have just completed our mid- year budgeting process, and we seem to be about where we need to be. The Sheriff’s Department has asked for a larger increase, but the other departments have held the line. Funding the Sheriff’s Department substantially is a problem we must solve. However, when we increase the Sheriff’s budget, it also puts more work on our Courts system, Judges and Prosecutor. The Sheriff hires more deputies and arrests more people, the Prosecutor must have someone to take the extra case load, the Courts need more probation officers to monitor people, the indigent defense lawyers get more cases, and we have to have a place to put the extra inmates. It all works together. It is necessary and it is expensive. It is also difficult to not help the other departments also who have done a great job of doing more with less for several years now. It is a problem, but, by November we hope to have a solution. One thing is for sure, by the end of the year, the appropriations will be balanced.

As some of you may have noticed, we now have the new signage in front of the Administration Building, Law Library, and the Courthouse, and a few smaller signs in back of the buildings to indicate to people where to go. This project, although seemingly small, was much needed to advise people not familiar with where things are located in each building, especially Zoning and Building Regulations. Hopefully, this will eliminate some confusion for people, especially those new to the County. Thanks to the Solid Waste Director, Krista Fourman, for funding this project. The signs are made entirely of recycled materials.


Why was Harmon Field renamed?

Greenville City Schools provided this in response to general questions about the recently renamed "Good Samaritan Stadium at Harmon Field."

Greenville City Schools was approached over a year ago by Good Samaritan Hospital and Wayne Health Care to sponsor Greenville City Schools. Good Samaritan and Wayne Health Care will provide compensation to the district in the amount of $230,000 from 2012-2016 for advertising in athletic areas. Harmon Field was renamed, “Good Samaritan Stadium at Harmon Field” for the length of the agreement.

The term of the contract is for 5 years with an option to renew for an additional 5 years for a total of $225,000. If Greenville City School opts for the full ten year agreement it would generate $455,000 that could be used to upgrade athletic facilities within Greenville City Schools.

Another great advantage of this agreement is that athletic training will be provided to all of Greenville City School athletes at a cost of 1.00 per year by a Wayne Health Care’s certified athletic trainer. This is a substantial savings for the district as Greenville City Schools will not have to employ their own athletic trainer. Many other districts have signed similar agreements, Northmont City Schools and Vandalia Butler are among a few of them.

By finding alternate revenue sources to help with upgrading athletic facilities we can save tax payer dollars.

If you have questions about this agreement please contact Jon McGreevey at 937-548-3185.

GCS Superintendent Fries Answers a Ton of Frequently Asked Questions

GCS Supertenfent Douglas Fries passed on this comprehensive collection of answers to some frequently asked questions (many asked several times via the Sidebar Chat). Read over them and see the district's responses. If you have a question not listed here or would like further information on any of the ones below, you can email Mr. Fries at dfries@greenville.k12.oh.us or contact the campaign through GreenvilleStrong.com

If the levy fails, is it possible that the state could come in and condemn some or all of our old buildings?
Repairs are more likely to be required prior to a building being condemned. However, at any time a major safety issue could cause a building to be condemned or shut down. School buildings have many ongoing inspections that must meet certain requirements. These inspections are done to maintain safety for all people using the buildings. Examples of these inspections include fire alarm and pull stations, kitchen health and safety (including freezer temperatures) waste water plant, well and domestic water at rural facilities, asbestos re-inspection (when contained in buildings) boiler, and insurance companies reviewing of the grounds and content. Any of these inspections could require districts to make repairs or maintenance to their buildings. These inspections could result in large item repairs to some of our buildings.

What is going to happen to the old buildings? As taxpayers, we want to make sure these will not continue to cost us money once they are vacated.
The old buildings will not be kept by the school district. They will either be torn down or sold. The Ohio Facilities Construction Commission will fund the demolition and abatement of the three elementary buildings along with the Junior High School if it is determined to be in the best public interest to do so. There is money allocated at the rate of 57% local and 43% from Ohio to handle the cost of demolition and abatement. The building contents can be used or sold, and the remainder of the ground could be used for green space or sold to the highest bidder. Should it be determined that the buildings have a use to the public or private citizens which will benefit the community, they could be considered for any purpose available or sold at the time.

Conversely, are we going to be forced by the state to tear down all of our vacated buildings? What if we want to use or sell one of the buildings? Will we be permitted to do that?
Ohio will fund 43% of the cost of demolition and abatement which is anticipated to be a total of more than $3,000,000. Each building will be assessed separately for potential community uses. The State will only share in abatement if the buildings are razed within the project. If a determination is made to demolish the buildings at a later date, it would be entirely on the taxpayers to fund such a project.

The entire Board of Education is behind the Superintendent and endorses this School Bond Issue and our community seems to be pulling together to support it. What is different about this election than the ones in the past?
The entire Board of Education and Administration is in full support of this bond issue. The Board of Education voted unanimously to bring the issue to the public. What is different is the millage is less, and there is no income tax. The project is funded over 37 years for the bond issue, rather than the 28 years used in prior elections, and the added years have reduced the amount of taxes annually. Interest rates are lower, also contributing to a lower individual tax. Finally, there is more of a need today to upgrade facilities to improve security and safety.

Does our new superintendent have experience with passing levies for new schools and renovations to existing buildings?
Mr. Fries was the junior high school assistant principal for one year and junior high principal for two years at Piqua when they constructed and opened a brand new junior high school. He assisted in the coordination of moving two junior high schools that stood separate for 60 years into one new single junior high school. After being a part of opening the building, he oversaw the completion of the entire punch list of more than 400 items to the building.

Mr. Fries was a superintendent for 11 years at Lincolnview Local Schools in Van Wert and completed an entire building project which included a new 7-12 building and a renovated elementary. He completed this project with Garmann Miller Architects and Engineers. This was a $21,000,000 dollar project that came in on schedule and under budget. This project was also through the OFCC, as is the proposed Greenville project.

What upgrades will be done at the high school?

  • New roofing
  • Plumbing and fixture upgrades
  • Window replacement
  • Security system improvement
  • Handicapped accessible doors
  • Technology upgrades to cabling
  • Cameras and equipment
  • Increasing cafeteria space
  • Additional equipment in kitchen
  • Upgrades in HVAC


Pets of the week


We have Sky at the Darke County Animal Shelter. She is a 2-year-old Lab/Shepherd mix. She is black and brown with short hair. She is a friendly girl and good with kids. She will make a great friend and loves people. She is looking for a good home and is ready for adoption.

We have Honey at the Darke County Animal Shelter. She is a 10-month-old Shepherd mix. She is black and brown with short hair. She is a little sweetheart and very lovable. She loves to play and havefun. She will make a super companion and friend. She is ready for adoption.

We also have a Jack Russell, a black Lab, a Shih-tzu, a Min-pin, and numerous other dogs. We also have cats and kittens for adoption.

The Shelter hours are 8am till 4:30pm Monday-Friday and 9:00 till noon on Saturday. The Shelter is located at 5066 County Home Road in Greenville, and the phone number is 547-1645.

We are putting our 2014 Pets Calendar together. All photos must be submitted by July 5th to be eligible for the calendar.

ALL DOGS OVER 3 MONTHS OF AGE MUST HAVE A LICENSE. For more information you can contact the Animal Shelter at 937-547-1645. To see the dogs we have, go to our web site at www.darkecountyanimalshelter.com.

July’s Lunch on the Lawn

Come and enjoy the Greenville Public Library’s 2nd “Lunch on the Lawn” Friday July 5th from 11:45 to 1:00 p.m. D’Allesios is serving from the white tent. Or bring your own lunch or just stop by for the music and enjoy the shade trees on a summer’s afternoon. Many thanks to the Friends of the Library for their sponsorship.

The menu is: Sandwich (choice of chicken salad croissant or Italian sandwich); Salad (choice of macaroni salad or fruit salad); Potato Chip Cookie; Drink (lemonade, water, or iced tea). Cost $7 with $1 of every lunch going to support Main Street Greenville.

Entertainment will be provided by “Frohna & Warner.” Both gentlemen grew up with music and have played in many different bands.

Aaron Frohna’s family is originally from Milwaukee where his grandfather played first chair violin in the Milwaukee Symphony and Pops. His Dad is a fourth generation piano tuner. Aaron learned piano & guitar at 14. He moved from Sidney to Greenville when he & Julie (Children’s Librarian) married.

David Warner was born in Germany while his Dad was in the Air Force but grew up in town and graduated from GHS. He studied music performance in college. He’s also a family man but finds time to play in the Municipal Park Band and sometimes teach percussion at the high school.

They play a wide variety of familiar favorites. Aaron uses a looping technique that gives a stereo effect and David plays cajon, a Peruvian drum. They’ve been featured on such radio stations as YSO and HITS 1055 as well as at many fundraisers and functions. You can see them at the Bistro and also opening for Amy McFarland & the Blues Merchants at DCCA’s “Blues & Barbecue” on July 12th.

Daniel Boone To Visit the Gathering At Garst

Steven Caudill will portray frontiersman Daniel Boone at the Gathering at Garst
Steven Caudill of Winchester, Kentucky grew up and now lives just a few miles northeast of Fort Boonesborough, Kentucky. Steven is an 18th century re-enactor who portrays Daniel Boone so well that watching him can leave one wondering if he isn’t the modern-day embodiment of Boone himself! His sincere passion for his state’s magnificent history and his admiration for Daniel Boone are honest and unmistakable. He may be as close as we in the 21st century can come to watching the original Daniel Boone in action.

Steven will take you on a historical educational journey through the life and adventures of one of history’s most notable figures. He will talk about the facts and myths that surround Kentucky’s favorite frontiersman. Don’t miss “Daniel Boone, American Hero” on the main stage at The Gathering at Garst on Saturday July 27 at 3:00 p.m. and on Sunday July 28 at 2:00 p.m.

Mark your calendars now and plan to attend the third Gathering at Garst on the grounds of Garst Museum on July 27 and 28. Musical artists will be performing throughout the two-day event. Be sure to visit our website at www.gatheringatgarst.com for frequently updated details or “LIKE” and “SHARE” our Facebook page to learn more.

Bill Booker Lectures on Annie Oakley

The third lecture in a series by Bill Booker is scheduled for Tuesday July 2nd at 2:00 p.m. in the Reference Room of the Greenville Public Library. The title is “Daughter of a Gun - Our Annie.” Bill’s lectures are always insightful, entertaining, and full of little-known facts and antidotes. In Bill’s words...

She came from a large family, born in northwestern Darke County, she had a superior mother, a natural father and two step fathers....and just one brother, the man who first taught her how to hold a gun....and how to aim high and hit the mark.

The lectures spans her 66 years, smooths out some facets of the usually unknown Annie....and turns some truths right side up. She used her unusually sharp eyesight to make utterly clean kills of all manner of game which she sold first in Greenville and then as far away as Cincinnati where she met her future husband, himself a sharp shooter, Frank Butler.

As part of the famous Buffalo Bill Wild West Show and Congress of Roughriders, she crisscrossed the country and made exhibition trips to Europe where she performed before the major crowned heads of government. There is more to tell than time can allow....Little Miss Sure Shot - that was Annie.

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

SEQUESTRATION IMPACT; HEAD START CLASSROOMS CLOSING

PIQUA – In the wake of sequestration, federal spending cuts, and the ongoing need for continued enhancement of quality in the early childhood education programs, the Board of Trustees and the Policy Council of the Council on Rural Services (CORS) has approved a realignment plan for its Head Start and Early Head Start program in three of their nine counties.

Although this realignment has come about because of the sweeping sequestration cuts in March, the CORS organization is also addressing many ongoing changes that will allow the agency to respond proactively to the future and economic conditions.

After analyzing community need and evaluating many different options, the approved plan for the local Head Start programs is to close 7 classrooms, accept 171 fewer children, and reduce the classroom and administration work force by 37 employees. The part day preschool classrooms in all the counties will also open two weeks later this fall. This mandated sequestration reduction will affect our children, our staff, and our local economies in Auglaize, Greene and Shelby Counties. It means - local jobs and local people will be negatively impacted.

Shirley Hathaway, Executive Director of Council on Rural Services said, “We have reduced expenses in the past few years – now we have no choice but to cut whole classrooms of children and staff to meet this new federal cut in funding. But by doing these strategic changes now, we will be able to position the program to excel towards our mission of providing the finest high-quality early education and care services for children and families in our Kids Learning Place centers.”


Help Wanted at Ramco Electric Motors


Ramco Electric Motors has immediate opens for the following positions:

  • Administrative Assistant
  • CNC Machinist
  • Electrical Engineer
  • Project Engineer
  • Manufacturing Engineer

For more information please go to http://www.ramcoelectricmotors.com/careers.html

We also have production (assembly) positions in our Stator Department.

Requires attention to detail, good hand-eye coordination and occasional lifting of up to 40 lbs. 1st shift positions (6:00am-2:30pm). Must be able to work overtime as needed.

These are Temp to Hire positions after 90 days. Please contact StaffMark in Greenville at 937-548-3212.

Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/RamcoEM

Couple Reunite after five years Via Technology of Skype

Pictured beside his garden is Melvin Longendelpher.
Behind him, left, is State of the Heart Hospice Social Worker Pam Pohlman,
and his daughter-in-law Peggy Longendelpher.
State of the Heart Hospice patient Melvin Longendelpher, of Greenville, and his wife Pearl Longendelpher, of Ahoskie, North Carolina, were able to talk face to face for the first time in five years through the technology of Skype, an internet technology that allows audio and visual exchange between individuals.

“It really surprised me,” said Longendelpher, a resident of the Brethren Retirement Community in Greenville.“I had no idea they had anything like that,” said the 96 year old former resident of Covington. “I never thought I would see Pearl again.” The two were married for 25 years, living in North Carolina. When Longendelpher’s health began to worsen, he decided to return to Darke County where he would be close to his family; Pearl, 93, decided to remain in North Carolina, near her family. The two talk by telephone every night.

Steering the reconnection of the two via Skype was the initiative of State of the Heart Social Worker Pam Pohlman. “When I first met Melvin, he talked a lot about Pearl,” she said. “I knew there was sadness there at not being able to spend time together, or to even see one another.” She said she mentioned the idea to Longendelpher, and he was receptive to trying Skype. “He said ‘do you mean I will really be able to see her face? It was important to him to see her smile.”


Darke County Soccer Team 1st place in MVYSA League & Wins Creek Classic Tournament

Pictured Front Row Left to Right: Parker Hesler, Folger Pyles, Connor D Null, Josh Smith, Andrew Strait, and Reed Brammer. Back Row Left to Right: Coach Branson Pyles, Matthew Poe, Logan Gonzalez, Garrett Thompson, Tani Mancillas, Joe Plumer, Jack Garland, Cole McGlinch, Cade McGlinch, Hayden Orme, and Coach Chad Null.
Other teammates not pictured for the DC Heat: Seth Conway, Shane Barga, Wyatt King, and Assistant Coach Gabe Thompson.

The DC Heat U14 Soccer team of the Darke County Soccer Association (DCSA) had a successful spring soccer season coming in First place in the U14 Miami Valley Youth Soccer Association (MVYSA) Division 1 League with a 6-0-2 record while exhibiting great sportsmanship, teamwork, and individual skills.

With the help of guest players from the (DCSA) DC Elite U13 team (Coach Mark Coppess & Coach Danny Diceanu) and special guest Goal Keeper Matthew Poe (ESPN Highlight), the DC Heat swept all four games in the Beaver Creek Classic Soccer Tournament U14 Blue Division including holding on for an epic 3-2 win over an excellent Cusa Courage 98 Premier team from Centerville in the Championship game.


Children’s Theatre Club Announces Summer Casts!

Click to enlarge
Children’s Theatre Club is currently working on two productions for their summer season. First on the schedule is Annie Get Your Gun Irving Berlin’s comedic look at the life of Darke County’s favorite daughter Annie Oakley. This classic musical features such great songs as; There’s No Business Like Show Business, Sun in the Morning, and Anything you Can Do. Performances will take place July 25, 26, 27, and 28. Cast members include: Sara Rice as Annie Oakley, Josiah Hootman as Frank Butler, Taylor Bowers as Dolly, Shane Barga as Tommy, Tristan Delk as Buffalo Bill, Chloe Noble as Winnie, Tanner Delk as Charlie and Bella Hartzell as Sitting Bull.

The organizations second summer production will be You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown based on the famous Charles Schultz comic strip. This heart felt musical features your favorite Peanuts Characters in a musical packed with such great songs as; The Kite, New Philosophy, and Happiness. Performances for You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown will take place on August 16, 17, and 18. Cast members include: Heath Marker as Charlie Brown, Chloe Cox as Snoopy, Hanna Rice as Lucy, Josiah Hootman as Schroeder, Sarah Crumrine as Sally, and Bryson Delk as Linus. Feature performers for both shows include: Glory Bowers, Jaime Bevins, Emily Courtney, Chloe Eberhard, Harley West, Rose Swanson, Molly Hunt, Hayley Meade, Carleigh Cox, Kyrsten Ross, Skylar Fletcher, Bradley Stewart, and Rachel Bowers.


Downtown Greenville Farmers’ Market Continues through October

GREENVILLE, Ohio- The Downtown Greenville Farmers’ Market (sponsored by Greenville National Bank and KitchenAid Experience) kicked off Saturday, June 1, 2013 and will continue to run every Saturday until October 12, 2013 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Farmers’ Market is near the Darke County Courthouse on the corner of 4th and Broadway.

The Farmers’ Market has been a Darke County summer staple since 1998. This year promises to be another great year for fresh produce (as it is ready for harvest), baked goods and handmade crafts from local vendors.

Farmers’ Market attendees can expect to see the following vendors throughout the season: Fluffy Addiction, Threewits Heritage Farms, Ansonia FFA Greenhouse, Carrie Drees and Betty Byrd, Janet’s Bakery, Kraut Creek Sheep and Cattle, Wolf’s Produce, Sandra Dunn, Linda Emerick, Brady Williamson, Francis Byers, Innisfree on the Stillwater.

Vendors will offer various goods ranging from embroidered crafts, vintage bears/dolls and handmade jewelry to produce, baked goods, herbs and fresh flowers. Event attendees can expect to see a varied lineup of vendors and goods each week.

Vendor applications are accepted throughout the season. For application inquiries or further information about the Farmers’ Market, please visit www.downtowngreenville.org, like Greenville Farmers Market on Facebook or call Main Street Greenville Executive Director, Amber Garrett at 937-548-4998.

NAPRA's 7th Annual Kidds Kupp


A.C.E. Conservation Tour – July 24-25, 2013

The A.C.E. (Agriculture for a Clean Environment) group is planning a conservation tour of Ohio on July 24 & 25, 2013. This trip is being offered to residents of Miami and Darke Counties and is limited to those over 21 years of age. The cost for this tour is $75 per person, hotel rooms are double occupancy only.

The conservation tour will depart from the Miami SWCD office (1330 North County Road 25A, Troy, Ohio 45373) promptly at 8:30am. The first two stops of the two day, one night tour will be in Urbana where the group will tour the Champaign Berry Farm and Freshwater Farms of Ohio before heading to Columbus.

Since 1995 the Champaign Berry Farm has provided red and black raspberries to Central Ohio. Champaign Berry Farm is family-owned and operated, serving you-pick customers, wholesalers, and farmers markets each summer. The Pullins family grows and manages over 20 acres of raspberries along with a small planting of gooseberries.


CITY OF GREENVILLE SELECTED FOR $1.2 MILLION GRANT

The City of Greenville has been selected for funding of a $1.2 million grant through the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Small City Program. Greenville was one of seven cities in Ohio that were awarded funding from this Program of $13.0 million which was announced the first part of June 2013.

The proposed project will take place on Sweitzer Street from Pine Street to Fourth Street and then proceeding down Fourth Street to Sycamore Street. Work proposed includes reconstruction and widening of the street along with new curbs, sidewalk, storm drainage, and catch basins. A more visible crosswalk pattern will be placed at the intersection of Central & West Fourth Street that serves the Greenville Junior High School. The project will also involve replacement of sanitary sewer, increasing the size of the water line, new service laterals, and fire hydrants. Mote & Associates, Inc., consulting engineer has estimated the project to cost $2,350,000.

Curt Garrison, Safety/Service Director introduced the Small City Program to the City Council the first of the year along with Susan Laux, Grants & Funding Specialist of Mote & Associates, Inc. The Council concurred that this Program could be an important benefit to the City and immediately gave their support. The application was prepared and submitted on behalf of the City by Ms. Laux on March 1st of this year.

The City will be scheduling a meeting with ODOT in the near future to confirm the project scope and obtain final approval of the funds. The construction year will also be determined at that time. ODOT will be providing 80% of the construction costs related to the street, curb, sidewalk, and drainage. The City of Greenville is responsible for the remaining 20% along with the water and sanitary utility replacements.

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

TWO ARRESTED IN DRUG RAID IN GREENVILLE

Fellers, Griffith
On June 25, 2013 at approximately 4:07 p.m., members from the Greenville Police Department, Darke County Juvenile Probation Office, Miami County Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit, Darke County Sheriff's Office, and Union City, Indiana Police Department executed a search warrant at 416 1/2 E. 3rd Street in Greenville. The search warrant was a result of a lengthy drug investigation by the Greenville Police Department.

47 year old Paul L. Fellers was arrested for Felony Permitting Drug Abuse and 27 year old Shaunte D. Griffith was arrested for Drug Trafficking in Heroin in a school zone. Both were taken to the Darke County Jail to await arraignment. This investigation is ongoing and additional charges are likely. The property is owned by John Castle. A nuisance abatement warning will be issued to Mr. Castle, Paul Fellers, and Shaunte Griffith.

Anyone with drug information is asked to contact the Greenville Police Department at (937) 548-4150 option 2 or the Darke County Sheriff's Office at (937) 548-2020.

"The Passing of the West School Building": GreenvilleStrong.com

West School, from GreenvilleStrong.com
The folks at GreenvilleStrong.com were pointed to a letter that originally appeared in The Chief in 1923 that remarked on the imminent destruction of the old West School, which was Greenville's first high school, to make way for a new building that is now the Junior High.

Be sure to read the whole piece, but the overall message certainly seems just as relevant now, 90 years later. Specifically these closing lines:
"So the old building will go and with it the squawking heaters, the cracked ceilings, the gum plastered desks and the leaky pipes; and we can look forward to a new building erected with that spirit which has made this Country—'For the people and by the people.'"
Click here to read the full article at GreenvilleStrong.com

Flicks on 5th is now Theater on 3rd

Thank you to America’s Decorative Concrete for donating labor and materials to create the Theater on 3rd showing screen.

Main Street Greenville is thrilled to announce that a simple change in venue will allow for a $1,500 savings for the Main Street Greenville organization. First Fridays - Theater on Third will take place Friday, July 5 at dusk with a showing of Despicable Me.

In years past, the organization would rent a blow-up projection screen, a HD projector and the sound equipment to present the movie to a large crowd. In addition, the event required us to shut down the use of a side street off of Broadway (5th St.). Trying to think outside the box, we were able to start a mini grassroots movement to eliminate the need of renting any equipment or shutting down any street.

As with all Main Street Greenville events, it wouldn't have been possible without the help and donations of many businesses and individuals in the community. We are thankful to the following for their donations:

  • elementsLife - School of Healthy Living - use of building
  • Eric Laux with Laux Farm Services- use of HD projector
  • Bach to Rock- use of professional sound equipment
  • City of Greenville- use of public parking lot
  • America's Decorative Concrete- donation of time, labor and materials to paint the screen onto the building

The always-popular outdoor movie event, previously held on Fifth Street will move to Third Street. The movie will be projected onto the elementsLife building (120 W. Third St.), in the parking lot behind Bach to Rock.

This event is free and open to all. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, friends, and family downtown for another exciting night presented by Main Street Greenville, and of course, many businesses will stay open late. We hope to see you for First Fridays - Theater on Third!

Tour de Donut Early Registration Ends on Monday (July 1st)

Early registration ends July 1. Online and mail in registration must be received by July 1 to take advantage of an early registration price. Custom cycling wear orders must also be received by this date to ensure ride day delivery.

The Tour de Donut is a unique bicycle event, where your ability to eat donuts is just as important as your ability to ride your bicycle. The event is a timed bicycle "race" where riders visit two "donut stops" during the 30 mile course and eat donuts. For each donut the rider eats during the ride (and keeps down) they have 5 minutes deducted from their ride time.

The 3rd annual Donut mini will return with one donut stop on a 15 mile course. The mini will offer its own awards just like the longer distance while offering an alternative to those who are concerned about the full route allowing younger riders and families to take part in the fun.

Prizes are awarded in age group classes including the coveted golden Tour de Donut championship belts for the best adjusted "donut time" in addition to most donuts eaten and fastest bike only time.

You do not have to be an experiences cyclist to take part in this event. While the event is technically a "race" very few consider it a serious competition, remember this is all in fun! Anyone on a bicycle is welcome.
Expanding for 2013 will be Friday evening dinner rides and entertainment, free camping and sleeping bag space, a downtown finish line festival area with live music, food and outdoor sports vendors.

New this year also be Free kids donut rides prior to the event start.

This event operates with zero sponsorship and pays for everything utilized including the 600 dozen donuts at the 2012 event.

Growing 400 participants in 2012, over 1350 participants from 16 states and Canada came to Darke county to “comp-eat”.

Online and Mail-in registration opened January 1 with 60 participants signing up that day. Registration will be open until the 2000 rider limit is reached or until the September 1st deadline. There is no day of registration.
www.thetourdedonut.com

Annual Book Sale to be held at New Madison Public Library

The Friends of the New Madison Public Library will hold their annual book sale on Thursday, July 4 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. The book sale will take place at the library, 142 South Main Street in New Madison. Call 937-996-1741 with any questions about the sale.

Greenville Career Tech Welding Students Tour Hobart Welding


Greenville Career Tech Welding students from Instructor John Guttadore's classes toured Hobart School of Welding this past school year. Students learned about welding careers and opportunities, sample curriculum and course schedules, certifications, and potential salary. Starting this summer Greenville Career Tech Center will have five students attending the Hobart School of Welding to pursue a future career in welding. The attached photo shows Greenville Career Tech students featured in the World of Welding Magazine Summer 2013.

Legislation Honoring Fallen Ohioans Passes Ohio House

State Representative Richard Adams (R-Troy) today applauded the Ohio House of Representatives’ passage of House Bill 19, legislation that designates several memorial highways in honor of 10 Ohio heroes.

House Bill 19 includes a provision to rename a portion of State Route 55 in Miami County—running in an easterly direction between the municipal corporations of Troy and Casstown—as the “Pfc. Jeffrey L. Rice Memorial Highway.”

“I am pleased we can honor Jeff Rice for his sacrifice as he served our country in protecting freedom,” said Representative Adams.

Pfc. Jeffrey Rice was a native of Troy who graduated from Troy High School in 2007 and from Upper Valley Career Center. He entered active duty in 2008 as a member of the 20th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade based out of Fort Hood.

Pfc. Rice fought in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan as a combat engineer who searched for improvised explosive devices. He volunteered for a second tour of duty in Afghanistan and, in July 2012, was killed in Kandahar at the age of 24.

The portion of State Route 55 to be named in honor of Pfc. Rice is located near the family home and will be a reminder of his heroism and bravery.

House Bill 19 passed unanimously and has been sent to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.

Experiencing the World without the Expense

Do you love to travel, taste unique foods, try new experiences, or have a desire to learn a foreign language, but are unable to do it in this economy? CCI Greenheart is the solution you have been looking for. CCI Greenheart is a cultural exchange based organization that matches host families to foreign high school students from all around the globe within Darke, Miami, and Shelby counties for a one month or ten month stay.

With the American lifestyle quickly revolving around technology, it is easy to forget how special face-to-face experiences are and how those experiences truly make each person feel at the end. Think about the last conversation you had with someone face-to-face and what you were able to take from that conversation. Hopefully it was not just information as one would do via text or email, rather a feeling or feelings should be connected to that conversation. Maybe you felt revived, elated, excited, energetic, curious for more, or various other emotions. That is what hosting is all about. It is about the feelings that one obtains by spending great quality time with someone from another country. It can simply be hitting the mall, dinner at home, attending a sporting event, or even bigger milestones that a family may be going through such as a graduation, marriage, or an addition to the family. Hosting an exchange student is meant to be a rewarding experience with very little required financially and physically. If a family is able to open their doors to a student, provide the student with adequate living space, assist them in being a part of the local high school, and willing to make sure that their basic needs are met on a daily basis; then they are a family that should join such a great organization as CCI Greenheart.


COMMUNITY BLOOD CENTER RECOGINIZES DARKE COUNTY FIRST QUARTER BLOOD DONOR MILESTONES

Left to Right: Gary Lloyd (100 LTD), Neil Pleiman with Marilyn Staker (200 LTD), and Rober Keiser (175 LTD)
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. Every time a donor donates any blood product it is a donation. Life Time Donations are a total of all your blood product donations.

5 LTD
Lorrie Addington, Michelle Anderson, Timothy Arnold, Brian Bailey, Brent Baker, James Beckman, Ben Bowman, Angel Brewer, Ken Broering, Chelsea Bruns, Brittany Burnelto, Jennifer Buschur, Michelle Chen, William Clark, Camera Clum, Sherrie Collett, Brooke Collins, Angela Cost, Jordan Dean, Alyssa DeMange, Mark Flora, Amber Frilling, Kristian Garwood, Christina Godwin, Linda Goubeaux, Allyson Grilliot, John Hall, Jerry Halley, Rachel Hedrick, Lori Hemmelgarn, Steve Henry, Faith Hope, James Hunt, Diane Jenkins, Mitchell Jokerst, Mary Jutte, Lindsey Kennett, Celeste Kenworthy, Dennis Knight, Daniel Krugh, Nick Lange, Kimberly Leeper, Carol Littman, Austin Luthman, Taylor Magoto, Makinzi Marker, Olivia Monnin, Stefanie Monnin, Kelly Mueller, Adrian Noe, Kristina Parke, Kirsti Pickering, Beth Pierron, Paula Price, Amber Ransome, Craig Reed, Jennifer Rhoden, Michael Rhoden, Ashlynn Roth, Renee Schmitmeyer, Marcus Shively, Dennis Simons, William Swisher, Scott Thobe, Seth Thomas, Robert Thornbury Jr., Tammy Tollefson, Jarett Warren, Katie West

10 LTD
Jeremy Benedict, Meghan Brewer, Angela Brown, Brian Condon, Jennifer Cruze, Marcus Denlinger, Devan Devone, Darin Dubbs, Roxie Earick, Adreá Elson, Hinohiko Enomoto, Mark Good, Amy Hanes, Emily Harman, Christopher Harshbarger, Jerry Hinkle, Lorraine Holzapfel, Megan Johnson, Ryan Knick, Dana Lafuze, Jerry Lawrence, Diane MacKenzie, Jacob McGuire, Russell Meyers, Alvin Mueller, Travis Nicholas, Randall Patty, Jodi Petitjean, Mary Pool, Cheryl Pressler, Tish Rademachir, Peggy Rehmert, Karen Reier, Diane Richard, Shawnee Rismiller, Jeffrey Robbins, Julie Ruchty, Kreg Shane, Michael Shimp, Robert Shively, Andrew Smith, Stacy Stover, Craig Thomas, Megan Wagner, Karen Wintrow, Anthony Wroda


Monday, June 24, 2013

Greenville City Schools to Host Public Meeting Tonight


The Greenville Board of Education and Administration will host a public meeting about the upcoming bond issue to be held on the August 6th ballot.

The meeting will be held on Monday, June 24, 2013 at 7:00 P.M. in the Memorial Hall Auditorium.

Greenville has the opportunity to construct a new K-8 school facility with renovations to the high school with funding assistance from the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission. Anyone in the Greenville School Community is invited to attend the public meeting and get answers to questions you have on the upcoming construction project pending voter approval.

For more information visit: www.greenvillestrong.com

Sunday, June 23, 2013

Marionettes at the Library

Greenville Public Library's “Family Fun Day” last week was wonderful. Minnetrista Theater brought to life five Aesop fables in a delightful use of shadow puppets, quirky characters costumes, and music. Audience participation was at a all time high.

Another treat is in store this coming Wednesday June 26 at 11:00 a.m. The Frisch Marionette Company will perform for the first time at the Library. This show is sure to be lively and entertaining for all ages.

In case of rain we'll meet at the First Congregational Christian Church Activity Building on Fifth Street. Many thanks to the Friends of the Library for their generous sponsorship of “Family Fun Days.”

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Assertiveness by Elizabeth Horner

Teen to Teen Talk: 2nd of 12 Article Series

“What’s this?” my dad asked one day, somewhat annoyed as he stared at the mountains and mountains of books I had heaped on my bedroom floor. I was dusting, I explained, to clean the shelves all the way to the back instead of just brushing a paper towel or feather duster across the visibly dirty section. Understanding that I am an avid book lover, I told my dad, “my books deserved that”.

And yet, in spite of my insistence in that situation, I am aware of my own tendencies to sweep some problems under the rug. I’m fairly easy dealing with my own problems, but when it comes to conflicts with friends or relatives, I am more inclined to accept responsibility even for things that are not my fault, hoping that will disperse the tension.

I am not particularly proud of this behavior, but to Dr. Robert E. Alberti, the author of Assert Yourself- it’s Your Perfect Right: A Guide to Assertive Behavior, it’s even more serious than that. He claims a lot of people have a propensity to veer in either one of two self-destroying directions”: towards meekness, which often means submitting oneself to circumstances one finds undesirable, or towards aggressiveness, which can result in one getting what one wants, but often at the cost of another’s feelings. Instead, he recommends being assertive with your goals and wishes--- a state that involves neither being under or over passionate about the little stresses of life.


Friday, June 21, 2013

Pets of the week


We have Missy at the Darke County Animal Shelter. She is an 8-month-old Basset Hound mix. She is brown with short hair. She is a friendly little girl. She is current on her shots. She will grow to around 30 pounds. She is looking for a good home and is ready for adoption.

We have Bear at the Darke County Animal Shelter. She is a 6-year-old Collie mix. She might have some lab in her. She is all black with long hair. She is a big girl and very friendly. She will make a super companion and friend. She is looking for a good home and is ready for adoption.

We also have a terrier, a collie mix, some boxer mixes, a Border collie mix, an Blue Heeler mix and numerous other dogs. We also have cats and kittens for adoption.

The Shelter hours are 8am till 4:30pm Monday-Friday and 9:00 till noon on Saturday. The Shelter is located at 5066 County Home Road in Greenville, and the phone number is 547-1645.

We are putting our 2014 Calendars together. If you want a chance to have your companion animal’s picture in the calendar you must submit it by July 5th. Contact the shelter for more details.

ALL DOGS OVER 3 MONTHS OF AGE MUST HAVE A LICENSE. For more information you can contact the Animal Shelter at 937-547-1645. To see the dogs we have, go to our web site at www.darkecountyanimalshelter.com.

New Madison Library Board to Hold Special Meetings

The Trustees of New Madison Public Library will hold two special meetings for the purpose of interviewing candidates for the open library director position. The first meeting will be held Thursday, June 27 at 6:30 p.m. and the second meeting will be held Friday, June 28 at 6:30 p.m. An executive session to discuss the hiring and/ or compensation of a new employee may be held at the end of each of these special meetings. Both meetings will be held at the library, 142 South Main in New Madison. Call 937-996-5315 with questions. Library board meetings are open to the public.

VERSAILLES BLOOD DONOR WINS NEW GRILL FROM LOWE’S

ROGER GRILLIOT AMONG 1,450 DONORS IN DARKE CO. DAYS BLOOD DRIVE

Versailles blood donor Roger Grilliot will be “grilling a lot” this summer after winning the grand prize Char-Broil four-burner grill in the Community Blood Center (CBC) Darke County Days Blood Drive.

Everyone who registered to donate at any Darke County blood drive April 1 through May 31 was automatically entered into the drawing for the Char-Broil grill, sponsored by the Lowe’s on Wagner Ave. in Greenville. Roger put himself in the running when he made his 104th lifetime donation at the May 20 Knights of Columbus community blood drive in Versailles.

“We were needing a new grill, and it wouldn’t be long before we would be looking for one, but not something that elaborate!” said Roger as he talked about using the new Char-Broil in the summer cook-outs ahead. “I know there are certain family members that will want to help us break it in!”

CBC Darke County Rep. Dana Puterbaugh said the Darke County Days Blood Drive was a success with 1,450 people registering to donate in April and May. She credited Lowe’s with being a valuable partner in sponsoring the drive.


Help Wanted at BRC


Help Wanted at Samaritan Behavioral Health in Eaton / Preble County

Clinical Therapist
Associate status or Part-time status - 32 hours per week

Requirements
Master’s degree in social science field with Ohio license of LISW

Job Description
Therapist functions as a member of the outpatient team to deliver outcome effective mental health services and care coordination to adults and families.

Please send resume or make inquiry to:
Marilyn Houser, MSM
Director of Employee Services
Samaritan Behavioral Health
Elizabeth Place
601 Edwin C Moses Blvd
Dayton, OH 45417
Office: 937-734-4327
Fax: 937-734-8256

Buchy, Adams Honor Darke County Basketball Team

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During Wednesday's session of the Ohio House of Representatives, State Representatives Jim Buchy (R-Greenville) and Richard Adams (R-Troy) presented a resolution on behalf of the Ohio House to the Darke County “Dawgs” Basketball Team, which recently won the state championship in Division III. The team is part of the Darke County Special Olympics program.

“This team should be very proud of what it has accomplished,” Rep. Buchy said. “The team members have worked very hard at their sport, and all of Darke County is proud of them.”

“It was terrific having the Darke County ‘Dawgs’ come and visit at the Statehouse,” Rep. Adams said. “They should be commended for their efforts, and I’m pleased that they could be recognized in person by the members of the House.”

A Woodpecker Feeding Its Young - Photo Submitted by David Dill

Here's a photo from David Dill of a "male downy woodpecker feeding its young one."


Have an interesting photo to share? Send it to darkejournal@gmail.com

Teen Event at the Library

The Greenville Public Library is hosting Stephen Hollen's "Urban Legends" on Tuesday June 25 at 4:00 p.m. Teens age 11-18 from all over the area are invited.

Stephen Hollen is an award winning storyteller and Historic Impersonator. He holds a degree in Oral Interpretation (Storytelling) and is currently President of the Ohio Order for the Preservation of Storytelling, Past President of the Miami Valley Storytellers, a member of the National Storytelling Association and the Christian Storytelling Association. He has been in Who's Who in America 4 times. His blog www.mountainstories.net features stories and poems and is read worldwide.

Young Adults (YA) are also invited to join Summer Reading to win prizes - and to attend “Teen Thursdays” at 3:00 p.m. for snacks, crafts, games, and cartoons. Stop into the Library for a cool summer.

Don’t Forget to Register for West Central Wildlife Habitat Workshop

Workshop will focus on managing grassland habitat

GREENVILLE, OH – Space is still available at the habitat workshop series being offered to landowners wishing to improve habitat for wildlife and other conservation goals. The workshop series is sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife, ODNR Division of Forestry, Pheasants Forever (PF), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), The Ohio State University Extension, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Ohio Soil and Water Conservation Districts.

The Grassland Habitat workshop is the second in the series and will take place on Saturday, July 13th from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm on the Rammel Farm located at 6879 Arcanum-Bears Mill Rd., Greenville, OH 45331. This event is $10/person with continental breakfast and lunch and reference materials to take home.

The purpose of the workshop series is to offer the landowner and wildlife enthusiast a well-rounded approach to managing their property to establish and maintain wildlife habitat. Each workshop will focus on a specific habitat type or wildlife species. Participants will learn techniques for managing land to benefit both game species and wildlife in general as well as information on funding and technical assistance. This grassland workshops main focus will be CRP mid-contract management, grass & wildflower identification, grassland site prep and seeding, weed control and more.

The participants must pre-register with the Darke Soil &Water Conservation District at (937) 548-1715 ext. 3. The registration deadline for the first workshop is July 5th, 2013.

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Guest Post from Shirley Hathaway in Support of the GCS Building Levy

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. 

As a life long resident of Greenville and graduate of Greenville High School, I appreciate the community who supported our schools not only for me but for my four children who also graduated from Greenville. I endorse the levy for many reasons, but one is paying it forward as others in the past did for me so that the children yet to come have a progressive community school in which to flourish.

Above all else is providing a safe environment for our kids; one that is safe from intruders and one that is not falling down around them. Dumping excessive amounts of money in repairs of old buildings rather than to invest in safety, better technology, science labs, and creative environments is like putting Scotch tape on the hole in the dike!

For over 35 years I have worked in support of education and a better life for vulnerable kids and have seen them prosper in the right surrounding. I imagine we all support the ability for our children and youth to succeed in life and to keep that value right here in our hometown. With the united partnership of our teachers, administration and school board, our community should move forward now while there is still state funds set aside for Greenville and interest rates are low. Our vote for the Bond Issue and Maintenance Levy, shows our kids a progressive community that cares to invest in them.

Shirley Hathaway
Greenville, OH

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