Group Lifestyle Balance Program

Wayne HealthCare is pleased to announce the next offering of the Group Lifestyle Balance Program. The program is called "Lifestyle Balance" because it can help individuals reach and maintain a healthy balance by learning to make lifestyle changes through eating, physical activity, and behavioral changes. The program will help you learn facts about healthy eating and being active. Your instructors will help by providing support and knowledge along this journey to help you succeed.

The focus of the program is to assist participants with making lifestyle changes to improve health and overall wellness. As a result of making healthy lifestyle changes, many individuals do lose weight; as well as, reduce their risk for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other diseases.

Your role as a participant is to commit to a change in your diet, physical activity, and behavioral habits. You will be asked to monitor your daily food intakes and physical activity, so the instructors can provide you with tips for improvement as you work towards achieving your goals.

The cost is $11 per session or $250 which covers instruction and support, class materials, food and exercise trackers, pedometer, Calorie King book, and Thera band. The next program will meet for 22 sessions from September 1, 2015- March 15, 2016 at 4pm. Class size is limited to 25 participants. Contact Karen Droesch at 547-5750 to learn more about the program.

Musician Wanted

First Congregational Christian Church is seeking a musician to play during their 10:30am Sunday morning Worship Service

• Contemporary music as well as traditional hymns are incorporated during the service
• Guitar or piano/keyboard skills are a plus!
• Compensation is negotiable

If interested, please contact the church office at 548-3575 Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm

A New Bookclub at Library

The Greenville Public Library is hosting a new bookclub led by by Melinda Guerra. Melinda explains, “Having intentionally avoided book clubs for the last decade, I winced when offered the opportunity to start one for the Library. I chafe at the reputation of book clubs: an absence of book discussion, a repetitive book list, an inability to stay on track, a lack of desire to engage with books that challenge personal opinions… the list could go on.

“I said yes anyway, deciding “a book club for non book club people” could draw together those who similarly avoid book clubs and want a low-commitment opportunity to spend time actively discussing a diverse book selection with other readers. With that in mind, I invite you to set aside your preconceived notions about book clubs (positive, negative, ambivalent, or indifferent) and consider participating in one we’re shaping to be intentionally different: Bookish.

“The first meeting for Bookish will be Monday, August 17th at 6pm, on the third floor of the Library. We’ll be discussing Celeste Ng’s Everything I Never Told You, a book that tells a story of loss and in doing so, explores relationships, gender, race, and the pressures that often shape interactions between parents and their children.

“To make the books accessible, the Library has - in addition to the copy in circulation - purchased five books for use by the first five Bookish participants who email me to reserve a copy. If you aren’t one of the first five, if you prefer audiobooks, or if you are a person who likes to mark up your copy as you read, the book is also available for purchase from nearby bookstores and online retailers.

Contact me at gplbookclub@gmail.com for more information, to reserve your book and/or space for the August meeting, or to get added to the update list for future Bookish meetings.”

Only 1 More Day to Pick the Theater on Third Film for September!

Remember, voting for the final Theater on Third film of the season ends tomorrow afternoon. Be sure to get your votes in and share this post with your friends and family encouraging them to do the same. The results are close enough that either of the three choices, Up, Toy Story 3, or Finding Nemo, could still win.

Vote in the sidebar to the right!

Help Wanted at Performance Mortgage

PERFORMANCE MORTGAGE – Receptionist/Clerical Position

Please send all resumes to:
performancemortgage@performancemortgageone.com
or by mail:

Performance Mortgage

5178 Children’s Home Bradford Rd

Greenville, Ohio 45331

KTL Performance Mortgage, LTD 5178 Children’s Home Bradford Rd, Greenville, Ohio 45331 NMLS#114045

DCCA ANNOUNCES CAST FOR MCT'S KING ARTHUR'S QUEST

An outstanding cast has been chosen for Darke County Center for the Arts' presentation of Missoula Children's Theatre's King Arthur's Quest. Following just five lively days of intense rehearsals, two performances of the musical play that takes audiences to the medieval kingdom of Camelot will be presented on Saturday, August 1 at Versailles Performing Arts Center at 280 Marker Road. Curtain time for the matinee is 3 p.m.; the evening performance is at 7 p.m.

An outstanding cast has been chosen for Darke County Center for the Arts' presentation of Missoula Children's Theatre's King Arthur's Quest. Following just five lively days of intense rehearsals, two performances of the musical play that takes audiences to the medieval kingdom of Camelot will be presented on Saturday, August 1 at Versailles Performing Arts Center at 280 Marker Road. Curtain time for the matinee is 3 p.m.; the evening performance is at 7 p.m.

Bryce Miller will perform as the title character King Arthur. His Queen, Guinevere, will be played by Hanna Rice. Other familiar figures from the mythical kingdom are Merlin, Raven, Taleisin, and Lancelot; these parts will be acted by Reagan Herndon, Allie Tanner, Lucy Prakel, and Aaron Buchy respectively. Tessa Tyo won the role of Lady of the Lake who produces the sword in the stone; Arthur's father, Uther Pendragon will be played by Maxwell Jordan. Rounding out list of the well-remembered characters from Camelot are Mordred, to be acted by Isaac Gulley, and Morgan LeFey, which will be played by Sarah Crumrine.

The Knights of the Round Table will be played by Samantha Buchy as Green Knight, Cierra Miller as Red Knight, Cameron Clark as White Knight, Noah Mansfield as Yellow Knight, Tessa Blakely as Black Knight, and Evan VanSkyock as Blue Night. Acting as the Squires are Matthew Francis as Black Squire, Henry Jordan as White Squire, Grace Wooten as Red Squire, Kara Strait as Yellow Squire, Olivia Wetzel as Blue Squire, and Leo Williams as Green Squire. Appearing as the Citizens of Camelot are Noah Brown, Danielle Francis, Katherine Kauffman, Kaylee Phelan, Molly Phelan, Lauren Pohl, Hannah Schneible, Gabby Spitzer, and Max Wooten.

Madelaine Gantt, Maureen Gantt, Sophie Gettinger, Elise Hays, Isabel Rawlins, and Alayna Rindler will play the Damsels in Distress who sound a warning of approaching trouble, and Sarah Buchy, Allison Francis, Bella Gulley, Rachel Hartings, Bell Makombe, Nevan Miley, Lucy Schneible, Kaitlyn Tollefson, Ella Williams, Addy Wooten, Alex Wooten, and Avery Yount will perform as The Minis.

Lauren Hartings, Sifa Makombe, Faith Mansfield, and Haddi Treon will serve as Assistant Directors throughout the week, assisting MCT Tour Actor/Directors Peter Gibbons and Hannah Hays. Peter will also assume the roles of Keeper of the Keep, Recalcitrant Giant, and Intractable Dragon in the show. Mary Alice Newbauer is pianist for King Arthur's Quest.

The Missoula Children's Theatre residency is made possible by a grant from Darke County Endowment for the Arts. Darke County Center for the Arts also receives funding from local businesses, foundations, and the Ohio Arts Council. Tickets to the performance cost $5; to reserve tickets for either Saturday performance of MCT's King Arthur's Quest, contact DCCA at 937-547-0908 or visit DCCA's website www.centerforarts.net. Tickets will also be available at the door prior to performances.

The Ladybug Garden Club and The Ohio Association of Garden Clubs has chosen to honor two "Gardens of the Month" in July.

The Beautification committee of the Ladybug Garden Club is (l-r) Lisa Marcum, Angela Beumer, Isabel, Cindy McCallister and David Culbertson.

The inviting gardens of Isabel and David Culbertson on North Broadway welcomes you with the scent of roses, gardenias, phlox and much more. The gardens have many colors of perennials, with vegetables, and shade trees to add to the setting. Isabel selects her plants locally and has 75 containers brimming with excellent blooms. She has incorporated a special pool area, bird houses and a blue bottle tree in the gardens. The gazebo in the corner adds interest and Isabel stated the top came from the Methodist Church in Greenville that the Culbertson's were able to purchase.

The Ladybug Beautification committee (l-r) Cindy McCallister, Eric and Cheryl Hughes, Lisa Marcum and Angela Beumer.

The corner gardens of Cheryl and Eric Hughes on Wayne Avenue adds a brilliant touch to all passing by with early spring iris, lots of perennials, annuals, containers, and shrubs. Cheryl loves to hear people comment on the their enjoyment of the gardens. She has 68 mixed containers she developed when she purchases plants locally and beyond. Welcoming butterflies to their gardens are white lantana, rose of sharon, periwinkle, along with many perennials and perfect zinnias and other annuals. Everyone likes a quiet moment to relax and you got that feeling walking up to their cozy deck with a hot tub surrounded by lots of containers and plants.

Both gardens are truly a work of art.

Pets of the week

GREENVILLE - The Darke County Animal Shelter has many pets available for adoption, including several breeds of dogs, as well as cats and kittens. The Shelter chooses pets to feature each week, this week they've selected:

Sadie at the Darke County Animal Shelter. She is a 2 year Collie mix. She is brown and black with long hair. She is a playful girl and wants to be at your side all the time. She loves to play and have fun. She is a little sweetheart and is ready for adoption.

Nana at the Darke County Animal Shelter. She is a 9 month old Border collie. She is white and black with long hair. She is a little shy but does know some commands. She doesn’t care much for chickens. She will make a good companion once she gets to know you. She is ready for adoption.

Remington at the Darke County Animal Shelter. He is a 5 year old Shepherd mix. He is black and brown with a white chest. He has short hair. He loves to play fetch and does know some commands. He is very playful. He will make a good companion and good walking friend. He is ready for adoption.

They also have a Lab mix, a boxer mix, walker, a terrier, a Husky, some Pom-a-poo’s, 2 Great Pyrenees and numerous other dogs as well as 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.

You can get your license online at www.doglicense.us/oh/darke . 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 they have, go to their web site at www.darkecountyanimalshelter.com.

Please visit also the website of the Friends of the Shelter: www.darkecountyfriendsoftheshelter.com

Starry Nights Mini Camp at the Park District

There is still time to sign up for the Starry Nights Mini Camp at the Darke County Parks Nature Center on August 11-13 from 9pm-11pm. The former cutoff date of July 14th has been extended, so give the Nature Center a call. The camp is open to kids ages 10-12, and the fee is $30. Participants will spend these late nights gazing at the celestial bodies that fill the night sky. Learning the planets, constellations, and stars will introduce a whole new element of the natural world to these campers. This camp coincides with the peak of the Perseids meteor shower! Not only will campers learn the stars above, they’ll learn how to operate the telescopes in order to view them best. Keep your fingers crossed for clear skies and join them! Call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165 to place your camper’s name on the list. Registration forms can be picked up at the Nature Center (4267 State Route 502 West) or be found on their website: www.darkecountyparks.org. Please call with questions or for additional information.

Free Computer Classes at Library

The Greenville Public Library is again offering free Computer Classes to the community. They are: Basic Computer Skills, Monday August 10th, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm; and Basic Internet Skills, Monday August 17th, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Class is limited to 10 participants so hurry to register by calling 548-3915. Classes are taught by Stephanie St. Meyers.

NeuroConnect – Connecting survivors of stroke and brain injury with support and resources, Thursday, August 20, 4 pm

Versailles Health Care Center is pleased to invite the community to its inaugural event for survivors of stroke and brain injury and their families. NeuroConnect will meet quarterly to connect survivors and their families with positive support and beneficial resources. Sessions will be led by Shannon Condon, Facility Rehab Director and Speech Therapist, and Tammy Moyer, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Each event will feature a different education topic, often with guest speakers.

The first NeuroConnect will be Thursday, August 20, 2015 at 4 pm. It will be held at Versailles Health Care Center. This is a FREE meeting for survivors of stroke and brain injury and their families. Light snacks and beverages will be provided.

To RSVP or for more information, please call Shannon at 937.526.0130.

MVCTC Schedule Pick-up Nights Scheduled

Englewood, Ohio – Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC) junior and senior students enrolled for classes during the 2015-2016 school year may pick-up their school schedules on:

Monday, August 3, 5:00-8 p.m.

• 5:00-6:15 pm –Cookout, Welcome, Tours of Programs
• 6:30-7:00 pm – Parent/Student Meeting (Required Meeting in SAC)
• 7:00-7:30 pm - Pick up Schedule
• 7:30-8:00 pm - Laptop Pick up & Building Tours

Students enrolled in Agriculture and Livestock Management; Animal Care and Management; Diesel Power Technologies; Natural Resource Management; Retail Agriculture Services; and Veterinary Science may pick-up their schedules.

Tuesday, August 4, 5:45-7:30 p.m.

• 5:45-6:30 pm - Schedule Pick up
• 6:30 – 7:00 pm - Parent/Student Meeting (Required meeting)
• 7:00 – 7:30 pm - Laptop Pickup & Building Tours

Students enrolled in Air Force Junior ROTC; Architectural Design; Auto Collision; Auto Services; Automotive Technology; Aviation Maintenance Technician; Construction Carpentry; Criminal Justice; Electrical Trades; Firefighter/EMS; Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning; Heavy Equipment Operator; Precision Machining; Robotics and Automation; and Welding may pick up their school schedules.

Wednesday, August 5, 5:45-7:30 p.m.

• 5:45-6:30 pm - Schedule Pick up
• 6:30 – 7:00 pm - Parent/Student Meeting (Required meeting)
• 7:00 – 7:30 pm - Laptop Pickup & Building Tours

Students enrolled in Business Ownership; Computer Network Engineering; Computer Repair & Technical Support; Game Programming & Web Applications; Cosmetology; Digital Design Technology; Graphic Commercial Art; Graphic Photography; Media & Video Production; Medical Office Management; and Sports Management and Marketing may pick up their school schedules.

Thursday, August 6, 5:45-7:30 p.m.

• 5:45-6:30 pm - Schedule Pick up
• 6:30 – 7:00 pm - Parent/Student Meeting (Required meeting)
• 7:00 – 7:30 pm - Laptop Pickup & Building Tours

Students enrolled in Allied Health Technologies; Biotechnology; Culinary Arts; Dental Assistant; Early Childhood Education; Health Careers Academy; Hospitality Services; and Sports Medicine may pick up their school schedules.

Schedules for all students, both juniors and seniors will be available in the
Student Activity Center. Students may also pay school fees and visit their career technical labs on these evenings.

For more information about MVCTC or the Schedule Pick-up Night, please visit,
www.mvctc.com or call 937-837-7781.

Darke County Marijuana Eradication Nets 200 Marijuana Plants Worth a Total of $200k

On July 28, 2015 the Darke County Sheriff's Office, along with the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), conducted its annual Marijuana Eradication. Each year, BCI agents help local law enforcement officers spot marijuana grows with the help of a helicopter between April and October, when growers typically plant and later harvest the drugs. Experts at BCI estimate that a fully mature marijuana plant can be worth between $1,000 and $1,500 once processed and sold on the streets. Higher quality plants can fetch up to $2,000.

More than 200 Marijuana plants were located, worth approximately $200,000 at street value. At this time no criminal charges are being pursued stemming from the recovered marijuana plants.

EXCITING IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE GREENVILLE Y CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Shanna Good

In an ongoing commitment to providing the highest quality early learning and childcare for the residents of Darke County, the YMCA of Darke County has been working on exciting program updates, which also include a name change to The Greenville Y Child Development Center.

“As one of our YMCA national areas of focus, youth development is foundational to us,” said CEO Sam Casalano. “We believe that the skills and values children learn early on are vital building blocks for quality of life and future success. As we strive to support the development of every child cognitively, physically, spiritually and socially, and also recognize the essential nature of our partnership between school and home, it is our desire that every child realize their full potential, resulting in confident kids today and contributing and engaged adults tomorrow. Our name change is part of our journey and we are grateful to partner with families in our wonderful community.”

Katie Roberts

Another exciting update for the Child Development Center involves a new director. Katelyn Roberts joins the team as Director of Child Development. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Miami University with a specialty in Early Childhood Education. She previously served as a lead toddler teacher in a NAEYC accredited program (the National Association for the Education of Young Children is the highest and most distinguished accrediting board), served as a YMCA day camp director and also as a YMCA camp counselor and YMCA before and after school administrator. Both her background in education as well as previous YMCA experience position her well to take the early learning programs to the next level of excellence.

To better assist the growing program, Interim Director Shanna Good will remain as the Associate Director of Child Development. Shanna’s extensive knowledge of the community and years of YMCA service make her an ideal fit to compliment and complete the leadership team.

“We are excited to welcome Katie and we look forward to great things under her leadership. We are also pleased to have Shanna Good remain with our Child Development Center as part of her ongoing YMCA responsibilities. Shanna also serves as our Member Services Director and is a strong asset to our association,” noted Casalano.

To better serve families, hours of operation will expand to 5:30 AM- 6:00 PM Monday through Friday, effective in September.

Research shows that children enrolled in high quality early learning programs are more likely to stay in school, attend college, earn more money and be employed in high-skilled jobs than their peers.
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening our community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Registration is currently underway for the 2015-2016 school year. For more information about the Greenville Y Child Development Center, please call 548-3777 or e-mail kroberts@ymcadarkecounty.org.

Wayne HealthCare and the Darke County Health Department is pleased to announce the Community Health Needs Assessment Survey for the Community

(Greenville, OH) July 28, 2015 - Beginning this week, Wayne HealthCare and the Darke County Health Department in collaboration with the Wright State University Center for Urban and Public Affairs will begin contacting Darke County adults and requesting their participation in the Community Health Needs Assessment Survey.

Residents may receive a phone call asking them to participate in a 15-20 minute survey about their health and the healthcare services available in Darke County. The telephone survey will be conducted by graduate students at Wright State in order to collect valuable health information from a minimum of 400 adults. The survey is completely confidential and will not include any identifying information.

Wayne HealthCare and the Darke County Health Department is requesting residents to take their time when completing the survey. The data gathered will be used by the collaborative organizations and other community partners to identify health issues and concerns from residents’ perspective. The data will also be used to seek future grants to work on implementation of a health improvement plan for Darke County.

Rumpke Earns Service to Society Award for Recycling 7 Million Pounds of Glass Every Month

DAYTON, Ohio—July 28, 2015—Rumpke’s unique glass recycling process earned First Place in the Service to Society category at the annual Innovation Index Awards, presented by the Dayton Business Journal and the Dayton Development Coalition.

According to DBJ, “The winner of this award exemplifies a commitment to increasing the prosperity and quality of life of the Dayton Region. Organizations applying for this award must be able to demonstrate how their innovative program has helped our community overcome hardships.”

Annually, more than 40,000 tons of glass bottles and jars collected from homes, restaurants, bars and other venues are processed at Rumpke Recycling’s glass plant in Dayton, which has been in operation more than 10 years. The plant received more than $4 million in upgrades in 2011, supported by a $500,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, accepted by the City of Dayton.

The projected impact of the glass recycling process will improve with continuous innovation. In 2014, Rumpke launched a student engineering project with the University of Dayton Innovation Center to improve the glass recycling process. The cleanup system the engineering students are developing will reduce contamination of the glass plant’s feedstock by 20 percent, allowing Rumpke to process more efficiently, and ultimately recycle more volume.

LWV Informative Membership Party

Kay Robbins, Director of CASA, will share information about Court Appointed Special Advocates with LWV members and guests at their annual membership party for the League of Women Voters of Darke County.. Shirla Neff will host this annual event at her home, with the intent of giving members and potential LWV members insight into CASA and our local League of Women Voters..

This gathering, scheduled for Thursday, August 13th at 7 p.m., features Ms. Robbins discussing the role of these volunteers who are trained to speak for neglected and abused children in the court room. League members will be available to discuss the various educational activities our local LWV sponsors, such as Candidates Night before each election in which there is a contest between or among candidates. The League is non-partisan and educational in purpose.

Sharing light refreshments together will give guests an additional opportunity to chat and learn more about CASA and the League of Women Voters.

For more information about this upcoming event and/or about the League of Women Voters of Darke County, call Shirla at 937.548.5378 or email her at sndnfl@hotmail.com.

Fort GreeneVille Chapter DAR Attended the Peace Pipe Replica Dedication at the Darke County Park District

 

The Darke County Park District invited Fort GreeneVille Chapter DAR members to the open house and ceremony at Shawnee Prairie Preserve on July 22 to celebrate the acquisition of a replica peace pipe for permanent display in the center’s Tecumseh Room.

The pipe is a replica of one presented by Major Gen. (and future President) William Henry Harrison to the Shawnee tribe at the signing of the Second Treaty of Greenville, July 22, 1814.

Those in attendance participated in the peace pipe ceremony. Pictured is chapter member Helen Wright participating in the peace pipe ceremony. Also DAR chapter member Karen Burkett portrayed the wife of Michigan Territorial Governor Lewis Cass.

Chapter members attending the peace pipe dedication were Helen Wright, Karen Burkett, Linda Riley, Shirley Hughes and Debbie Nisonger.

elementsLife Announces “Classes by Donation” Program

The owners of elementsLife, Emily & C.J. Jasenski are excited to announce that starting August 3rd all elementsLife Public Classes will be supported through a NEW donation program named "YOGA LOVE".

elementsLife will no longer require payment to participate in the Public Classes on their schedule, instead all students are asked to make a monthly, weekly or per visit donation to help cover the overhead costs associated with providing these classes to the public.

Now class registration fees will no longer present a barrier for anyone that wishes to take classes at elementsLife. Everyone can enjoy the benefits of Yoga and Healthy Living regardless of their economic situation!

If you are interested in learning more about elementsLife and the Yoga Love Donation program or the Current Public Class schedule, please visit their website at www.elementsLife.com (Click the YOGA LOVE logo on the home page), email at info@elementsLife.com or call 937-417-3592. elementsLife is located at 120 West Third Street in Historic Downtown Greenville, Ohio 45331.

Hairology Off Broadway Grand Opening

Hairology Off Broadway located just one block off of Broadway at 215 East Fourth Street in Greenville would like to welcome the residents of Greenville and Darke County to their official Grand Opening scheduled to be held on Friday, August 7th, from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM in collaboration with Main Street Greenville's "First Friday" celebration for the month of August.

The Great Darke County Fair is coming but you don't have to wait to get a Darke County Fair favorite as "Hawaiian food by Delight Catering" will be onsite with teriyaki beef and chicken, fried noodles, egg roles, and dole whip.

Festivities will also include gift bags for the first 100 guests, a raffle which will include hair products and a Chi Flat Iron as the Grand Prize, refreshments, free haircut gift certificates, and a henna tattoo artist will be onsite, and more.

According to owners Tiffany Shaffer and Kenda Justice, Hairology Off Broadway is not just any startup salon. Their hairstylists are always keeping up with the latest trends and techniques in the hair industry to give each client the ultimate salon experience. What sets them apart from the rest is that they begin their journey with eight stylists including some of the best in the area with many years of experience following them from the recently closed JCPenney Styling Salon in Greenville. The eight stylists have a combined 148 years of experience in the hair industry. The salon will also carry a wide selection of hair products including, Matrix, Paul Mitchell, Chi, Big Sexy, Kenra, and more.

Stylists include, Tiffany Shaffer, Kenda Justice, Jan Turner, Sandy Hoening, Lorea Drew, Mikayla Apple, Becky Quinn and Kayla Shellabarger. Follow Hairology Off Broadway on Facebook where you can connect with the stylists and schedule your next appointment online.

Mosquito Spraying in City of Greenville

THE CITY OF GREENVILLE WILL SPRAY FOR MOSQUITOES ON WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2015 AT 10:00 PM, SOUTH OF THE GREENVILLE CREEK AND THURSDAY JULY 30, 2015 AT 10:00 PM, NORTH OF THE GREENVILLE CREEK.

WEATHER PERMITTING.

ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONTACT THE STREET DEPARTMENT AT 937-548-2215.

2015 Ohio State University’s Farm Science Review – September 22, 23 and 24

Farmers and producers can gain a sharper edge and glean cutting-edge ideas from experts from the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences at The Ohio State University during this year’s Farm Science Review Sept. 22-24 at the Molly Caren Agricultural Center in London, Ohio.

Advance sale tickets for the 2015 Farm Science Review can be purchased at your Ohio State University Extension, Darke County, office at 603 Wagner Avenue, Greenville. All advance sale tickets are $7.00 each; ages 5 and under are free. Gate tickets will be $10.00. We also have information at our office for the special needs vehicles.

The Review will again emphasize the best agricultural research, resources, information and access for farmers, said Chuck Gamble, who manages the Review. Last year, the Review offered 180 educational presentations and opportunities presented by Ohio State University Extension educators, specialists and faculty, as well as Purdue University educators.

Farm Science Review is all about learning new tips, techniques and information to help producers increase their farm operation’s bottom line, Gamble said.

“As we encounter challenging economic times, it becomes even more important for farmers and producers to find the best information for their farm operations to remain solvent and to thrive,” he said. “We farmers have to operate as smart as we can in a challenging economy.

CORS Awarded Community Connectors Grant

Piqua, Ohio - Council on Rural Services has recently learned that they are recipients of a new grant through the Ohio Department of Education as part of the Community Connector Initiative. The Community Connectors program is proposed to give Darke County students more access to inspirational role models and to nurture skills that will help them succeed both in school and in the workplace. The state received 192 grant proposals from Ohio community agencies that work with schools across Ohio; of these proposals the state has funded 82 at this date.

Community Connector grants must address the following key components that are focusing on developing partnerships to serve grades 5-12 and carry out 5 core principles:

1. Setting goals to be prepared for the 21st Century Careers
2. Building character
3. Developing Pathways to Achievement
4. Building a Sense of Resiliency
5. Believing in a Positive Future

This grant in the amount of $89,716 was awarded to CORS/Gateway Youth Program as the lead organization. But as our community rallied and came together to propose this grant, many business, non-profit, faith-based and school partnerships are included. Partners involved are: Midmark, Wayne Healthcare, Norcold, Greenville National Bank, H & M Precision Concrete, State of the Heart Hospice, Darke County Wellness & Recovery Center of West Central Ohio, Darke County Municipal Court, Family Healthy Services of Darke County, Inc., Darke County Economic Development office. OSU Extension Office and the Darke County Chamber of Commerce.

Other community partners consist of First Baptist Church in Union City, Cedar Grove Church of the Brethren in New Paris, Mississinawa Valley and Tri-Village School Districts.

Through all the collaborative work of these partners, the target students in grades 5-12 will have access to one-on-one mentoring, skill building related to job readiness, career planning and work ethic. There will also be tutoring, career exploration, job shadowing opportunities and internships. A family component will be offered through a parent program called “Raising Highly Capable Kids”.

Because this state program provides a $3 to $1 match funding, the communities’ assistance both financial and supportive is a must to make this grant successful for the students. This grant benefits students to be more successful in school and their future. It helps the community with an increased graduation rate and a stronger, more knowledgeable, and successful workforce in the county.

Heirloom Garden Observations July 2015

Pictured left to right are Regina Schieltz, Terry Tonovitz, Marilyn Banks and Andrea Long. Photo by Jane Staley

The Olde Thyme Gardeners of Darke County parks took inventory of the Heirloom Garden following umpteen inches of rain from June into mid July.

The volunteer cucurbit species of an as yet undetermined parentage covers a few yards of ground acting as weed control. They are climbing the fence on both sides of the garden gate. Their large yellow-orange blossoms are a good sign. A few of them are already setting fruit - or vegetable or whatever they may become.

That cucurbit mystery vine, accounts for one of the traditional three sister plantings of pioneer gardens, squash or pumpkin. The other two sisters are beans and corn.

Elsewhere a corn stock grows taller than the bumper crop of milkweed which will vector in the Monarch butterflies to feed upon their only food. Shawnee Prairie Preserve of Darke County, Ohio is an official Monarch butterfly banding station. Monarchs banded there have been tracked into Mexico.

Beans planted earlier in the summer have succumbed to the weather or hungry burrowing critters such as voles. Another anonymous critter has caused the Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage to disappear. Both will be replanted.

Some green apples, one showing rosy coloration, hang from the Winesap apple tree located inside the stockade fence for protection from deer.

Surviving perennial herbs such as wooly thyme, winter savory, santolina, tri-color sage and chamomile surround the apple tree. Newly planted pineapple sage, basil, chives and lovage look healthy.

Lemon balm thrives outside the fence as do blooming Golden Yarrow and Purple Coneflowers. The wormwood is so thick and bushy the rain storms seem to have put it in a prayerful position.

The Olde Thyme Gardeners may supplement their weeding and reseeding with a few prayers in hopes of a more favorable weather pattern.

Storytime at the Gathering

Fort GreeneVille Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution invited school age children to a storytime at the Gathering at Garst on Saturday, July 25th. There were sixteen children participating in the event.

The storytime was held at the Burkett Encampment Tent. DAR member Karen Burkett aand HoDAR John were in period dress in order to give a visual of the time period. John portrayed Fort GreeneVille's hero, Josiah Hunt. Karen told the story of family heros from the book "Customs and Traditions" written by Bobbie Kalman & Tammy Evert. Afterwards there was a drawing for a copy of the book. The winner was 6 yr. Old Ryan Fritz of New Madison, OH. The book was donated by the Garst Gift Shop to the DAR chapter's literacy program. Members of the chapter provided refreshments to the participating children.

“Last Monday” in August Area Museum will Celebrate Osgood

The Versailles Area Museum’s “Last Monday” program will be this August 31st at 1:00 p.m. at the Versailles Area Museum.

This month we will reminisce about days gone by in the village of Osgood. What was it like to go to church or school here? What stores were in the village? Do you remember playing ball or what you and your families do for fun?

Come, sit and share your story or just listen to others. We look forward to learning your stories!

Join us for all the interesting tales and conversation that happen at each of these events! The afternoon is always capped off with a great dessert and a cool beverage. What better way to spend your late summer afternoon?

If you have ideas for programs we want to hear from you! After all it’s all about what YOU want.

In September we invite all area retired teachers and students to come and share “Tales from the Classroom”. Call your teacher friends now for this fun afternoon with our school memories!

Watch the local papers or our facebook page for additional details.

Support GHS Vocal Music and the Sunshine 5K

Greenville High School Vocal Music Boosters will again benefit from the Sunshine 5K, September 19. Your support, and the support of all runners, joggers and walkers is sought for this event and for GHSVMB.

This annual event will be begin at 8:30am on Saturday, September 19 in Greenville City Park. All the proceeds from participant’s registrations benefit local non-profit organizations. To register for the 5K, go to www.darkecountyfoundation.org. To designate GHS Vocal Music as the recipient of your funds, type “GHS Vocal Music” on the Team Name line. For more information, contact Christy Prakel at (937) 548-4673 or cprakel@darkecountyfoundation.org.

Help Wanted at State of the Heart Hospice

‘CATCH THE WAVE’ AT GREENVILLE GRACE BLOOD DRIVE

FREE WATER BOTTLE PLUS CHANCE TO WIN HAWAII VACATION FOR 2

DAYTON, Ohio – Greenville Grace Church will host a community blood drive Monday, Aug. 3 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 4805 State Route 49 with a splashy water bottle as the donor gift, plus a chance to win a deluxe Hawaii vacation for two.

Everyone who registers to donate will receive a free “Catch the Wave – Donate Blood” screw top water bottle with straw; everyone age 18 and older will also be entered in the Community Blood Center (CBC) “Get on Board – Give Blood” summer blood drive drawing to win an all-expense-paid Hawaii vacation for two. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment online at www.DonorTime.com or call 1-800-388-GIVE.

The grand prize includes air travel and deluxe accommodations for eight nights at two island locations. All taxes, fees and meals are included. The vacation package also includes pre-paid activities and sight-seeing excursions, plus all ground transportation.

Everyone age 18 and older who registers to donate with CBC from May 4 through Aug. 28 will be automatically entered in the “Get on Board – Give Blood Summer Blood Drive” drawing. REACH magazine is the media sponsor and The Flowerman is the fresh flower sponsor. Eligible donors can enter the drawing a second time when they register for a second donation during the blood drive period. Official rules are available at www.givingblood.org.

Anyone who registers to donate Monday, July 27 through Saturday, Aug. 29 at any CBC Donor Center and most CBC mobile blood drives will receive the final special-edition, Hawaiian-themed donor gift of the summer. The “Catch the Wave – Donate Blood” water bottle is a plastic, BPA free, mason jar-design with an orange screw top and sipping straw and the “Catch the Wave” slogan in blue with the CBC blood drop logo.

Maintaining the blood supply can be challenging during the summer months due to vacation travel and other changes in schedules. If you have to miss an appointment, CBC encourages you to reschedule when you are able. We especially encourage the continued support of type O whole blood donors and type A/B platelet and plasma donors.

ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON DR. CHAD WEBER PERFORMING ALTERNATIVE HIP REPLACEMENT

Dr. Chad Weber, Orthopedic Surgeon and
Versailles Health Care Center Rehab Medical Director.

Patients in need of hip replacements have a new alternative with Dr. Chad Weber, a surgeon with Orthopedic Associates of Southwest Ohio (OASWO), who is performing a different technique that is less painful and requires a shorter recovery time.

Weber, who is a board certified orthopedic surgeon who provides comprehensive general orthopedic surgery and orthopedic trauma care throughout the Miami Valley and surrounding areas, is one of the only surgeons in the area performing what’s called the direct anterior hip replacement approach. This approach is a minimally invasive surgical technique.

The potential benefits of direct anterior hip replacement in comparison to the traditional approaches include:

• Decreased hospital stay and quicker rehabilitation
• Smaller incision and reduced muscle disruption may allow patients a shorter recovery time and less scarring,
• Potential for less blood loss, less time in surgery, and reduced post-operative pain
• Risk of dislocation may be reduced
• May allow for a more nature return to normal function and activity

Traditional hip replacement techniques involve operating from the side (lateral) or the back (posterior) of the hip, which requires a significant disturbance of the joint and connecting tissues and an incision approximately 8-12 inches long. In comparison, the direct anterior approach requires an incision that is only 3-4 inches in length and located at the front of the hip. In this position, the surgeon does not need to detach any of the muscles or tendons.

Hip replacement, no matter how minimally invasive, is major surgery and patients are at risk for complications. However, the complication rate following joint replacement surgery is generally very low. Serious complications, such as joint infection, occur in less than 2% of patients. Besides infection, possible complications include blood clots, lung congestion or pneumonia. The risks that are normally encountered in conventional hip joint replacement remain. Not everyone is a candidate for this approach for various reasons.

Recovery success depends on several factors including surgeon training and experience, the surgical approach, the implant and the patient’s health and commitment to post-operative physical therapy.

Weber has performed the direct anterior method for about one year, which includes more than 50 surgeries. He emphasizes to his patients the importance of pre-planning their care before and after surgery. Weber encourages his patients to choose a rehabilitation center, such as Versailles Health Care Center, to benefit from extensive rehabilitation services and give the patient the best chance at a successful recovery. According to Dr. Weber, most people think that the surgeon will plan their post-surgical care and in reality it is up to the patient. Dr. Weber holds a free monthly Total Joint Replacement Class at Versailles Health Care Center. The event is open to anyone considering joint replacement and their families. Each class is taught by Dr. Chad Weber, Versailles Health Care Center Rehab Medical Director, and Shannon Condon, Versailles Health Care Center Facility Rehab Director. The next Total Joint Replacement Class is scheduled for Monday, September 14, 2015 at 6 pm. For more information about this class, call Shannon Condon at 937.526.0130.

In addition to this monthly class, Versailles Health Care Center will host Dr. Weber for a special presentation titled “Alternative Hip Replacement: Direct Anterior Approach” on Thursday, September 3, 2015 at 6 pm. This event is open to the public and will be held at Versailles Health Care Center. A complimentary dinner will be served. To RSVP for Dr. Weber’s special presentation, please call Shannon Condon at 937.526.0130 by September 1. Spots are limited!

Weber states, “My mission is to provide the highest-quality and most comprehensive general orthopedic and orthopedic trauma care to the community. My patients are my top priority. Consideration of the whole patient, open communication, and easy accessibility will enable us to be successful in obtaining our goal of a positive and functional outcome.”

Weber joined OASWO after completing his specialty training in Orthopedic Trauma with a fellowship through Ortho Indy at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Ohio University Kettering Network Grandview Medical Center. Dr. Weber through affiliation with OASWO joins the Athletic Workshop and was a Certified Athletic Trainer prior to becoming a physician. He served as an assistant athletic trainer for The Pittsburgh Steelers during summer training camps and preseason games. He is also a member of many organizations within the medical field, like the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, American Osteopathic Association, and Orthopedic Trauma Association. He has offices for consultation in Centerville, Dayton, Sidney, and Greenville. For more information about the direct anterior approach for total hip replacement or hip replacement in general, please call 800.824.9861.

EXCITING STUFF

DCCA NEWS by Marilyn Delk

Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall is a local treasure, admired and envied by other communities large and small. Upon his death in 1908, St. Clair, a wholesale grocer bequeathed $100,000 to be used to erect a “Memorial Hall for the use and betterment of the public schools.” Construction began in 1910, and the structure was completed in 1912 at a total cost of $135,000. (Henry's widow, Ella St. Clair, donated the additional funds required.) Through the years, the Hall has seen political speakers and lecturers as well as hosted professional and amateur performing artists and many school functions. All of that activity took a physical toll; an effort to restore the beloved building to its former grandeur was undertaken in 1985 and successfully completed in 1991.

But wear and tear on the much-used structure did not end with the completion of that restoration project, and shabbiness once again began to invade the grand space. However, St. Clair Memorial Hall is once again being returned to its original impressive state of glory. The current refurbishing, about a month from completion, has reached a really exciting phase where upon entering the auditorium one not only instantly realizes that much-needed improvements have already occurred but can also imagine the impressive soon-to-be-completed final result.

Simply seeing the magnificence once again emerging in the hundred-year-old structure is an exciting prospect; but local workers appreciate the opportunity to actually contribute to this project. “It's an exciting privilege to work on this historical landmark, making it look new again,” stated Micah Coblentz, a Greenville elementary school teacher who moonlights as a painter.

All supplies and labor that could be obtained locally were obtained locally. McCabe Painting is adding color to the walls that were repaired by Nealeigh Plastering; G & G Flooring is installing the carpeting and tile. Brumbaugh Construction will refurbish the impressive front doors, using as much of the original materials as possible, and will also install an additional brass railing in the lobby's central stairway. Bud's Electric has also contributed expertise to the project.

Original restoration colors have been maintained throughout the building; things look the same, except better. Painting in the auditorium is completed, and the lobby will soon be finished. Durable and lovely vinyl-enhanced tile in a neutral shade of blue has been installed in the area where the impressive and comfortable new seats will be placed; subtly attractive blue carpeting tiles will soon cover the aisle ways. Cutting edge high-tech theatrical lighting that will serve the needs of all who use Memorial Hall for many years to come is being hung; other new equipment will soon be in place.

The walls in the Anna Bier Civic Room and the Anna Bier Gallery have been re-painted in an evocatively-named shade--Ethereal White; the new blue-flecked carpet is already laid in these oft-used public spaces. New LED lights that will properly illuminate artwork without needing replacement for years will soon be installed in the Gallery. (The Gallery's old track lighting was moved to the Civic Room where it will also see many years of additional use.)

All of this activity has been made possible by a grant secured through the efforts of our state legislators and administered by the State of Ohio Facilities Construction Commission. Project Manager Matt Jordan says “those people at OFCC couldn't be nicer to work with,” and also praises the Greenville City School officials overseeing the project for the extra effort they have put forth expediting improvements to St. Clair Memorial Hall during a very busy year of school construction.

After this project is completed, some needs will remain unmet. “Although $500,000 is a lot of money and appreciated more than words can express, it's still not enough to do everything that needs to be done,” Matt said. “But it provides a great start to what is a never-ending process to preserve and protect the great legacy that lies within this incredible building,” he concluded.

Exciting stuff is happening at St. Clair Memorial Hall; Henry and Ella would be proud!

WOMEN NEED LOVE. MEN NEED RESPECT.

It’s as simple and as complicated as that!

Dr. Emerson and Sarah Eggerichs present the Love and Respect Marriage Conference – a dynamic, high energy, practical seminar designed to help couples and singles achieve the relationship of their dreams. Based on Ephesians 5:33 which says, “So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband” and the three groundbreaking principles taught in Dr. Eggerichs’ best seller Love and Respect, Emerson and Sarah bring a message that imparts revolutionary insights on how to achieve a brand-new level of intimacy and friendship.

This event will take place at EUM Church, 1451 Sater Street, Greenville, Ohio on Friday, October 2 from 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm and Saturday, October 3 from 8:15 am to 1:30 pm. The cost is $15 per person through September 21st and $20 per person after September 21st. For more information or to register for this video conference, go to www.loveandrespect.com.

What is Love and Respect? The Eggerichs believe love best motivates a woman and respect most powerfully motivates a man. Research reveals that during marital conflict a husband most often reacts when feeling disrespected and a wife reacts when feeling unloved. They asked 7,000 people this question: when you are in a conflict with your spouse or significant other, do you feel unloved or disrespected? 83% of the men said “disrespected.” 72% of the women said, “unloved.”

The Eggerichs conduct conferences and provide resources to the married, divorced, separated, dating and single. Men and women will learn how to resolve conflict, dealing with the negative reactions (the crazy cycle). They will also learn how to motivate each other by meeting each other’s need (the energizing cycle). Even those who feel hopeless in their relationships will gain understanding on how to handle an indifferent or unresponsive partner (the rewarded cycle).

Dr. Emerson Eggerichs is an internationally known public speaker on the topic of male-female relationships. Based on over three decades of counseling as well as scientific and biblical research, Emerson and his wife Sarah developed the Love and Respect Conference which they present to live audiences around the country.

Jeff Harper is Lead Pastor at EUM Church. The traditional worship service is Sunday 9:45 am at the Downtown Campus at 111 Devor Street and the contemporary worship services are Saturday at 6:30 pm and Sunday at 9:00, 10:30, and 11:59 am at the Worship Center located at 1451 Sater Street (corner of Sater and Sebring-Warner Road) in Greenville, OH. Kidmunity Children’s Ministry is available for kids age birth through grade six at the 6:30 pm, 9:00, 10:30 and 11:59 am services. The Downtown Campus, 111 Devor Street, houses the offices and preschool. For more information, go to www.eumchurch.org or call 548-3211.

Oakland COB Art Expo

You are invited to Oakland Church of the Brethren’s first annual art expo, Saturday August 1, 2015 2-5pm and Sunday August 2, 2015 12-1:30pm at the church 8058 Horatio-Harris Creek Road Bradford, OH.

Come enjoy local member artist displays. Any questions please call 937-448-2287.

Last “Family Fun Day” at Library

The last “Family Fun Day” of the summer is Wednesday July 29 at 11:00 a.m. on the lawn at the Greenville Public Library. Crowd favorite Mike Hemmelgarn returns for a new and exciting performance. As always, this year's program features a custom blend of ventriloquist characters and a wild variety of comedy juggling with a splash of magic. Mike's unique brand of entertainment is loved by all ages.

The Summer Reading Program also wraps up with prize winners! 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 and the Steyer Family Trust for their generous sponsorship of “Family Fun Days 2015.”

Man Arrested, Charged with Trafficking Heroin in Greenville

On July 24, 2015 The Darke County Sheriff’s Office Drug unit and Darke County Deputies executed a search warrant at 221 apartment # 1 W. Main St. Greenville, OH stemming from a 2 month heroin trafficking investigation.

Darren Woods (49) of Greenville, Ohio was taken into custody without incident by the Darke County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team(SRT). Woods is currently being housed at the Darke County Jail where he awaits formal charges on multiple counts of trafficking in Heroin within the vicinity of a school.

Darke County Sheriff Toby L. Spencer takes a hard stance against illegal drug trafficking and the illegal use of drugs in the county. Citizens with drug information, or information on any criminal conduct for that matter, are asked to contact the Darke County Sheriff's office at 937-548-2020. Tips can also be left with the Darke County Crime Stoppers by visiting their website at www.darkecountycrimestoppers.com or calling 937-547-1661. Information can be given anonymously.

Friday Odds and Ends

Is it dense of me that I didn't realize or remember that this year's Annie Oakley Festival includes free admission and free parking? I came across that this morning and was pleasantly surprised. I'm going to do my best to get out there today and take a few photos to share later.

Tomorrow will be a full day with the parade through downtown and the first day of The Gathering at Garst. I know I said it yesterday, but I'm greatly looking forward to sampling some of the beer on tap at the The Lewis & Clark Trailside Tavern and enjoying one of Baumbach's BBQ Pork Sandwiches (And oh, those heavenly cheesy potatoes).

Last night we realized Domino's had opened this week. I tried to call and was not surprised to be met with a busy signal (remember that ancient artifact of the time before call waiting?). As we've seen from other restaurants who have recently opened, I fully expect new places that are met with high volume demand to take a few weeks to get their bearings as they train new staff, work out new processes, etc. However, Domino's couldn't have been a smoother experience for us. We simply ordered online and were surprised to find our order had a wait time of just 15 minutes. I showed up and the parking lot was packed and the line for the pick up window stretched around the building (which was fine, as it gave me an opportunity to take the photo). The whole thing still took very little time from ordering online to when we took our first bites back at home. 

All of this is to say Domino's seems well run and the food was delicious. Good for them!

ANNIE OAKLEY FESTIVAL MELODRAMA

The Darke County Civic Theater is once again proud to present their yearly summer melodrama at the Annie Oakley Days festival. This year’s show will once again be in the large tent at York Woods north of Greenville. The cast is very excited to once again bring a fun filled, family show to Darke County. This year’s show is entitled “Dangerous Diamonds or The Malicious Mayor of Nowhere.” The melodrama was written and is being produced by local talent.

The play is set back in the late 1800s in an unnamed town called Nowhere. Since the town was just founded a few years earlier, the people of Nowhere have yet to choose a name. The town’s malicious mayor Ray Pierre (Matt Cline) has taken control of the town after the death of the previous mayor. With his accomplice Loca Motive (Sandy Hartley), Mayor Pierre plans to steal diamonds from a mine beneath town. But his plan is complicated when his secretary Daylee Plan (Jennifer Gibson) and bumbling local reporter Silace Dogood (Logan Hummel) begin their own investigation as to what really happened to the previous mayor. Things only get crazier from there as the rest of the town gets involved, including the local barkeep and his wife, a crazy inventor, a pair of bickering twins, a visiting monster hunter, and lots more wacky residents of Nowhere.

The rest of this talented cast includes Robbie Zehringer as the barkeep Seacrest Dropper and Jessica Setser as his wife Eve Dropper. Sarah Murphy brings to life the inventor Fran Stein while Dan Cline plays the monster hunter Van Oddesy. Jackson Aukerman and Danielle Sink play the argumentative twins Ben and Sarah Ravenclaw, while Rayna Hawes and Mike Hamilton take the stage as the father daughter team of Deputy Mareea Lacey and Sheriff Chris Cagney. Rounding out this amazing cast are Layla Carrington as sweets loving Willie Carmello and Jeanette Rowland as candy maker Vanellope Carmello.

The play was written by Arcanum resident Jackson Aukerman. This is his second melodrama being produced. The first was last year’s popular show “Haunted Hijinks.” Jackson has been a member of civic theater for four years and acted at Arcanum High School previous to that. He hopes everyone will enjoy the play and have a great time.

“Dangerous Diamonds” will be performed four times at Annie Oakley Days. The first show will be Friday, July 24th at 7 pm. Saturday, July 25th the shows will be at 3 and 5 pm. The final show will be Sunday, July 26th at 1 pm. Don’t miss this fun filled family show! Make plans to be at York Woods for this local melodrama and the Annie Oakley Days festival. The festival and melodrama are free to attend with plenty of free parking available.

For more information on the melodrama, please contact Dane at 937-423-5183 or visit www.darkecountycivictheater.org.

Youth at First Presbyterian Church Has Been Busy...

Back Row: Brandon Ervin, Nikki Gilmore, Austin Anthony, Hendrik van der Walt, Heath Marker, Marnelise van der Walt, Ryan Simons, Aaron Wise, Hugo van der Walt, Vivek Patel, Jacob Hounshell, Zach Hounshell, Carson Bruner, Matthew Hounshell. Seated: Paige Tester, Courtney Fullroth, Kelsey Tester, Chloe McKinney, Ally Hayes and Joe Smith

Youth at First Presbyterian Church at 114 E. 4th Street in Greenville have had a busy spring and summer, thanks to the many snowy, icy Sundays this past winter.

A fund raising spaghetti dinner with all the trimmings was postponed time after time, due to that weather. Plans for a summer music mission trip were put on hold. Confirmation instruction was delayed. But, not to be discouraged, Presby youth were determined to push ahead, having faith that time and funds would be there.

After all the bad weather delays, confirmation instruction began. On June 16, Gabrielle Smith, Annie Hayes and Zach Baker were confirmed, enabling these new members of the First Presbyterian Church to take their places with older youth to journey to the Christian music event, Creation 2015 in Pennsylvania, near the end of June.

At last, the spaghetti dinner was finally accomplished with everyone pitching in to make it a financial success to fund the Creation trip. Spaghetti was just a small part of the event, with wonderful salads, luscious desserts and games led by the young people. This promised to be a yearly event as the youth were planning, not only for their musical week, but for assisting with the Family Retreat and Vacation Bible School at Chenowith Trails at the end of August.

With funds from the spaghetti dinner, plus a donation from First Presbyterian Deacons, 20 youth and chaperones traveled to the Creation Christian music festival in Pennsylvania. Sleeping in tents and enjoying the opportunity to listen to live concerts with over 80 Christian music artists, the youth also experienced daily worship, hearing many nationally known speakers, Bible studies, and participating in a spike ball tournament. The weeklong event provided a great opportunity for the youth to bond with each other and their chaperones.

To learn more about youth opportunities and activities at First Presbyterian, a downtown Greenville congregation, call 937.548.3188.

4th Tuesdays @ New Madison Public Library

Programming designed for adults each 4th Tuesday @ 6:30.

Join us to be informed, entertained, & challenged.

July 28 - “Citizen CPR Training”

Led by Sandra Dunn of the Northern Miami Valley Red Cross. Learn “Hands Only” CPR. FREE Training with no special requirements.

Please plan to join us 6:30 - 7:30 P.M. in the Board Room.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke Counties awarded funding from Greenville & Sidney Rotary Clubs

The Greenville & Sidney Rotary Clubs recently made a donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby and Darke County. This donation that was given by the Greenville Rotary was given as part of their annual Rotary Gives Back Luncheon held on June 30th at the Brick Room of the Brethren Retirement Community. “The continued support we receive from the two county Rotary clubs is appreciated beyond words. With this donation we will be able to continue to serve the children in need of a mentor in the Darke County Community.” reports Jennifer Bruns Big Brothers Big Sisters Executive Director.

Mentoring programs provide support, activities, education, and most importantly, a mentor for children who may be considered at-risk of an abusive environment. The children involved in this program have the opportunity to engage in fun, social and academic enrichment activities with the interaction of their mentor. It is our goal to teach these children, through their relationship with their mentor, skills in managing life in a high-risk environment.

Thanks to generous donations from the Greenville & Sidney Rotary, matches in our two county service area continue to grow and influence “at risk” children in a positive way.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to develop and mature quality relationships between children and volunteers. The relationship is meant to guide each child towards becoming a confident, competent, and caring individual. If anyone is interested in becoming a volunteer, you may call the office at 547-9622 or 492-7611.

If you are interested in more information about the Big Brothers Big Sisters program or would like to volunteer; you can call our office at 937-492-7611 or 547-9622, or access more information at www.bigbrobigsis-shelby-darke.org.

“Chan, Tea, and the Way of the Warrior” at Library

The Greenville Public Library welcomes back Jesse Berry for a special event Thursday July 30th at 6:30. Everyone knows Jesse as the owner and head Sifu, or instructor, of the Young Forest Martial Arts studio and also the owner and operator of Blue Lantern Tea, an online store specializing in rare artisan teas from around the world. Many of us have enjoyed Jesse’s demonstrations of the traditional Gung Fu Cha or tea ceremony.

Again Jesse will make and serve tea along with another very special part of the program: a book speaking and signing of his debut novel Chan, Tea, & the Way of the Warrior. The book will be available for purchase. Jesse will describe how he was inspired by Gung Fu (Kung Fu has the same characters as Gung Fu) in his writing.

He explains “It is a misconception that Gung Fu means only martial art. Kung Fu translates as skill effort but is interpreted as skill developed through hard work and effort over time. A person can develop skill and effort through the art of tea as well.”

As editor and contributor to Tea Warrior, a martial arts blog and forum, Berry shares his experiences from more than ten years of martial arts, as well as his extensive knowledge of teas. This is a free event with limited seating. Please call 548-3915 or join this event page on Facebook to reserve your seat. Light refreshments will be provided.

World War II Veterans Tell Their Stories, Words of Appreciation Sought

Seven World War II Veterans will tell their compelling stories of courage, honor, and strength during a special event held at Edison Community College’s Piqua campus on Thursday, October 15 beginning at 11:30 a.m.

As members of the Greatest Generation, these World War II veterans scheduled to tell their stories to Miami Valley audiences are eager to make their voices known: Robert Tweed, Harry Christy, Marion Adams, Les Edsall, Bill Brower, Harry Ashburn, and the sole female and oldest of the group Nadine Nagle, 96.

These veterans were active in the Battle of the Bulge, Dachau, the Beaches of Normandy, Stalag VII-A, POW camps in Poland and Germany, the Philippines, and ferrying military as a WASP pilot.

Local group Thienn Snipps is preparing World War II music for the event and will perform a mini concert from 11:30 a.m. until 12 p.m., with speakers immediately following.

The coordinator of the event, Dr. Vivian Blevins, is asking community members, school children, and area college students to submit words of appreciation to these veterans. Her goal is to collect 500 letters or cards to be delivered to the speakers on the day of the program.

Letters may be sent via U.S. Mail to Vivian Blevins at 1973 Edison Drive, Piqua, OH 45356, or emailed to vblevins@edisonohio.edu.

What a Weekend This'll Be in Darke County...

Today marks the start of one of the busiest weekends for the county short of Fair Week (which is, shockingly, just around the corner). Personally, I think all weekends should start on Thursday, but so far no one has allowed me to make those rules.

So what's going on? Today is the first day of the Annual Annie Oakley Sidewalk Sales in Downtown Greenville. As usual, folks lined up this morning at the KitchenAid Experience to get a chance at their great deals and giveaways (click here to see their sale flyer). How long as the line? Allow Main Street Greenville to demonstrate:

Annual line for the Annie Oakley Sidewalk Sales at the KitchenAid Experience this morning! #annieoakley #greenvilleohio #kitchenaid #mainstreetgreenville
Posted by Main Street Greenville on Thursday, July 23, 2015

Other shops uptown, of course, are getting in on the event with sales of their own. Make time to stroll up and down Broadway, at least to soak in the good vibes of the crowds.

The Coffee Pot is hosting a selfie contest. Here are some details, and good luck.

Join our Annie Oakley Sidewalk Sale Photo Contest! How to participate (Thursday - Sunday): 1. Buy a delicious...
Posted by The Coffee Pot on Tuesday, July 21, 2015

I'll probably belabor some sort of 'creative' idea for an entry and then end up letting my daughter just smile pleasantly for my entry. Who doesn't love cute kids?

The sales last all weekend, but things pick up a notch on Saturday when the Downtown Greenville Farmer's Market joins in the action, and let's not forget that the Annie Oakley Festival Parade is returning after a brief hiatus!

The parade will run its usual route from the Fairgrounds to the Traffic Circle beginning at 10am.

The Annie Oakley Festival proper will be at York Woods (just north of Greenville at the intersection of State Route 127 and State Route 242. Across from the Annie Oakley Restaurant, per the Festival homepage). Tonight will see the Miss Annie Oakley Shooting Contest Finals with the festival itself starting Friday morning at 9am.

Click here to view the full calendar of events for the festival at their web site.

Along side all of these things going on, The Gathering at Garst also returns this year on the grounds of the Garst Museum. This event will run on Saturday and Sunday and includes a plethora of things to do, all of which you can read about on their site. What am I looking forward to the most?

1. The Lewis & Clark Trailside Tavern, a new attraction "serving up craft beer, friendly company, and stories from the dusty trail! Featuring the following on tap:
1. Sharpshooter from Great Lakes Brewing Company 
2. Dortmunder Gold from Great Lakes Brewing Company 
3. Summer Shandy from Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co.
4. Flying Rye from Warped Wing Brewing Company
2. Baumbach's BBQ: Yes, I know they're frequently setup in Rural King's parking lot these days, but The Gathering and Baumbach's has become synonymous to me over the last few years. Stop by and get a side of cheesy potatoes and tell them you heard about them on DarkeJournal.com. ;)

I'm sure I've overlooked something. Tell me in the comments what else is going on this weekend and what you're looking forward to doing the most!

Fort GreeneVille Chapter DAR Storytime at the Gathering

Fort GreeneVille Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution is inviting school age children to a storytime at the Gathering at Garst on Saturday, July 25th.

At 1:00pm at the Burkett Encampment Tent, John Burkett will have a storytime based on Fort GreeneVille's hero, Josiah Hunt. The Burketts will be in period dress in order to give a visual of the time period. Also Karen Burkett will be telling the story of family heros from the book "Customs and Traditions" written by Bobbie Kalman & Tammy Evert. Afterwards there will be a drawing for a copy of the book to a child participating in the storytime. The book was donated by the Garst Gift Shop to the DAR chapter's literacy program.

Education is one of the cornerstones of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Across the country, Daughters are meeting the challenge of educating the public by emphasizing the importance of being able to read. By supporting literacy, it enables self respect and confidence besides reaching life goals. Storytimes are a way of encouraging parents to instill a love of reading in their children.

Summer Lunch Program Offered by First Presbyterian Church

Linda Stoltz and Gene and Karen Henninger prepare free lunches for youth, under 17, at First Presbyterian on 4th Street.  These free lunches continue Tuesdays and Thursdays through August 6.

A little known resource in Greenville is the summer lunch program at First Presbyterian Church at 114 E. 4th Street. Free, nutritious lunches are served from 11:30 a.m. to noon each Tuesday and Thursday through August 6 for youth under 17 years of age and their parent/guardian.

The menu varies each day but is always colorful and delicious and topped off with dessert. Games and videos in a structured environment follow the meal for those that want to participate..
There is no paperwork to fill out but a call to the church office at 548.3188 would be appreciated but not required.

Although an old church, built in 1888, the congregation of First Presbyterian Church wants to share present day blessings with the community. Join other young people in enjoying the good food and good fun on Tuesdays and Thursdays at First Presbyterian, just back of Second National Bank on 4th Street.

‘CATCH THE WAVE’ AT DAVE KNAPP BLOOD DRIVE

FREE WATER BOTTLE PLUS CHANCE TO WIN HAWAII VACATION FOR 2

DAYTON, Ohio – Dave Knapp Ford Lincoln in Greenville will host a community blood drive Saturday, Aug. 1 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at 500 Wagner Ave. with a splashy water bottle as the donor gift, plus a chance to win a deluxe Hawaii vacation for two.

Everyone who registers to donate will receive a free “Catch the Wave – Donate Blood” screw top water bottle with straw; everyone age 18 and older will also be entered in the Community Blood Center (CBC) “Get on Board – Give Blood” summer blood drive drawing to win an all-expense-paid Hawaii vacation for two. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment online at www.DonorTime.com or call 1-800-388-GIVE.

The grand prize includes air travel and deluxe accommodations for eight nights at two island locations. All taxes, fees and meals are included. The vacation package also includes pre-paid activities and sight-seeing excursions, plus all ground transportation.

Everyone age 18 and older who registers to donate with CBC from May 4 through Aug. 28 will be automatically entered in the “Get on Board – Give Blood Summer Blood Drive” drawing. REACH magazine is the media sponsor and The Flowerman is the fresh flower sponsor. Eligible donors can enter the drawing a second time when they register for a second donation during the blood drive period. Official rules are available at www.givingblood.org.

Anyone who registers to donate Monday, July 27 through Saturday, Aug. 29 at any CBC Donor Center and most CBC mobile blood drives will receive the final special-edition, Hawaiian-themed donor gift of the summer. The “Catch the Wave – Donate Blood” water bottle is a plastic, BPA free, mason jar-design with an orange screw top and sipping straw and the “Catch the Wave” slogan in blue with the CBC blood drop logo.

Maintaining the blood supply can be challenging during the summer months due to vacation travel and other changes in schedules. If you have to miss an appointment, CBC encourages you to reschedule when you are able. We especially encourage the continued support of type O whole blood donors and type A/B platelet and plasma donors.