Ohio U.S. Representative Jim Jordan – A Welcome Replacement for Boehner - A Guest Post from Dr Charles and Rebecca Reier

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

Ohio U.S. Representative Jim Jordan gives certainty to the achievement of the conservative values that Boehner promised and never delivered. The article entitled “Freedom Caucus Torn Over Ryan”, appearing in the Wall Street Journal 10/22/2015, provides hope for a party that has lacked leadership and as a result fields over 13 candidates for the Presidency. The top three are party outsiders and the leader (Trump) comes closer to being an independent than a conservative Republican.

Should U.S. Representative Jordan adopt the philosophy elucidated in the 12th of our “Potpourri of New Year’s Resolutions for House Speaker” published in the DarkeJournal .com on Dec. 30, 2012, a conservative party need not draw blood on every issue. Such an event is not conservative but often wasteful.

Resolution 12 I Will work to develop a “Red, White and Blue” Republican Party with “Red” representing traditional Republican austerity at every level, “White” recognizing the value of independent thought and thinkers and “Blue” having compassion for the scores of individuals who have problems through no fault of their own..

Should Ryan and Jordan merge their views, the Republican Party will have the power of two as in two squared.

Charles E. Reier MD
Rebecca A. Reier
Greenville OH

National Society DAR Commemorates 125 Years of Service

Local Fort GreeneVille Chapter Celebrates by hosting a 125th Anniversary Luncheon and Encouraging Prospective Members to Join!

Fort GreeneVille Chapter DAR had a 125th NSDAR Anniversary Luncheon on Oct 24th at the Elks Lodge in Greenville OH. The guest speaker was Jean Halls Muetzel, OSDAR SW District Director.. Jean’s program was about the 125 years of DAR and the NSDAR Constitution Hall in Washington D.C. Also attending was Elaine Ortman, CDRC Vice Chairman, OSDAR SE & SW Districts. All in attendance had a wonderful meal and each were given a 125th NSDAR Anniversary mini trivet as a keepsake.

The Fort GreeneVille Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is conducting a membership drive as part of a nationwide celebration to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the founding of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. All women who can document descent from a Revolutionary War Patriot are encouraged to consider the many benefits of joining the vibrant service organization, which has promoted historic preservation, education and patriotism since its formation in 1890.

“Our chapter, which was organized in January 21, 1922, carries out the important mission of the National Society here on the local level,” said Chapter Vice Regent Debbie Nisonger. “We are eager to welcome new members to our chapter, and we have volunteers available to help them research and complete their genealogy in order to apply for membership.” Due to the ability to exchange and obtain genealogical information over the internet, interest in joining the DAR is at an all-time high, with six of the highest years of application submittals occurring in the last decade. The Genealogical Research System (GRS), which is a free online resource provided by the DAR to aid general genealogical research and to assist with the DAR membership process, has made joining the DAR even more accessible to many women. Explore these resources at www.dar.org/grs.

“Truly, there has never been a more exciting time to join the DAR. We offer today’s busy woman an opportunity to celebrate the joys of American citizenship in meaningful ways, and we are enthusiastic about the future of our Society,” said National Society DAR President General Lynn Forney Young, who noted that there are currently nearly 180,000 members of the DAR, serving in nearly 3,000 chapters across the nation and in several foreign countries. “I extend a warm invitation to all eligible women to join us in a rewarding future of service to America.”

Since its founding 125 years ago, more than 940,000 women have been inducted into membership. During the current three-year administration coinciding with the 125th anniversary celebration, the organization has issued a challenge to complete 10 million hours of service to America. Local DAR chapters nationwide are coordinating service projects in honor of DAR’s 125th anniversary throughout the year and members from coast to coast will participate in the National DAR Day of Service on October 11, 2015.

“From caring for veteran patients to assisting active duty service personnel, from preserving locations of historic significance to educational events, there are thousands of ways that Daughters are proudly answering the call to service in their local communities,” said Chapter Regent Mary Jane Dietrich.. “Here in Darke County, the Fort GreeneVille Chapter, for example, serves by participating in local historical events, historical preservation projects including ownership of the Studabaker one room brick schoolhouse and support local area veterans throughout the year. We are proud to carry out DAR’s mission to celebrate our American way of life.”

Chapter Regent Dietrich invites women who are interested in membership to visit www.DAR.org and to contact the local chapter at http://fortgreenevilledar.com or https://www.facebook.com/fortgreenevilledar to obtain more information.

Itty Bitty Art Market

The Preble County Art Association is presenting an Itty Bitty Art Market from November 6th- December 18th at the Visual Art Center. The market is a sale of tiny works of art that have been created by professional, amateur and student artists from the region. Because sales are immediate (no waiting for the show to close to collect your purchase) a preview party will allow eager buyers first dibs on the items. The preview party will open on November 5th from 6pm-8pm and will provide guests to tiny treats and drinks. A $5 donation is suggested at the door.

All proceeds from this event go to the PCAA’s education and outreach programming. Programs such as Oinkers for Art, Youth for Public Art, Family Workshops and others cannot happen without the support of community donations. We encourage you to spread the art and spread the love by participating in the Itty Bitty Art Market. More informatio can be found at www.takepartinart.net or by calling 937-456-3999. The PCAA operated the Visual Art Center and Clay Cafe located at 601 Hillcrest Dr. Eaton Ohio.

Edison Students Take Part in HealthRHYTHMS®

 Drumming Circle: Edison students in Gail Ahmed’s music appreciation class gather in a drum circle to participate in HealthRHYTHMS®

Students in Gail Ahmed’s Music Appreciation class at Edison State Community College learned about the health benefits associated with drumming during a special HeathRHYTHMS® course.

HealthRHYTHMS® was developed after leading neurologist and mind-body researcher Dr. Barry Bittman, MD led a renowned research team in the first biological study on the effects of group drumming in 2000. The protocol developed from this medical research showed the health benefits of drumming with a group, including stress reduction, mood improvement and a boost to the immune system.

Facilitated by Darlene Francis, RN, BSN, students were introduced to the mind, body, spirit, and community aspects of drumming as well as psychoneuroimmunology, rhythmacology, homeostasis, and beat induction. Students also discussed in detail how these methods could be applied to real-life settings and the theory of beat induction being a trait unique to humans.

“The students find this session to be very informative,” said Gail Ahmed, Instructor of Music. “They enjoy taking part in a hands-on activity, as well as gaining a different perspective and appreciation for what music has to offer.”

Following discussion, students gathered in a circle and the ten-step protocol of the program was introduced. The protocols included an introduction, wellness exercise, ice breaker, ABC’s of drumming, rhythmic naming, entertainment building, inspirational beats, guided imagery drumming, wellness exercise and the finale, which required the group play a variety of percussion instruments.

“We are very fortunate to have the opportunity to bring this awareness to the students,” added Ahmed.

HealthRHYTHMS® has been proven to help strengthen the immune system, improve mood states and reduce burnout, reduce student drop-out rates, reduce stress on the genomic levels, strengthen the immune system of corporate employees, inspire creativity and bonding in long-term care residents, and serve as a catalyst for quality of life improvement in adolescents.

For more information about HealthRHYTHMS®, contact Darlene Francis Director of Student Health Services by emailing dfrancis@edisonohio.edu.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS ENJOY FISHING DAY SPONSORED BY SHELBY COUNTY BASSMASTERS

Big Sister, Jerrica Holthaus from Fort Loramie & Little Sister, Faith Masteller from Sidney daughter of Marie Masteller.

Little Sister, Jennah Arrone & Nakaiya Arrone daughter of Renee Elmore
of Sidney getting fishing advise from Shelby County Bassmaster, Bob Kendal

A group of Big Brothers Big Sisters Volunteers and Littles recently enjoyed a beautiful day at the home of Mike Meyer of Fort Loramie, where they attended a fishing derby hosted by the Shelby County Bassmasters & Kiwanis. Over 60 Volunteers and Littles attended the annual event, which was held on Saturday, September 12th.

The outing included a cookout for all Bassmaster members, their children, and the BBBS Volunteers and their Littles. The fishing event concluded with an award ceremony for the top fisherman in several age categories.

Shelby County Bassmasters were able to put on this event as a result of local fisherman participating in bass tournaments throughout the year with a modest portion of the entry fee going toward the purchase of individual poles for each child. Other sponsors included Kiwanis Club, ODONR, Al’s Pizza in Fort Loramie, Molly’s Drive Thru, Spillway Bait & Tackle, Russ Michaels, Wagner IGA, Greenthumb Nursery, Playtex, and Mike Meyer.

Jennifer Bruns, Executive Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters stated, “The Shelby County Bassmasters do an outstanding job every year with this activity. The children who participate in this outing truly look forward to it each year, and it exposes them to a new hobby that they might not otherwise get the opportunity to do.” Bruns stated, “Being outdoors, getting fresh air, and learning about fishing is a neat experience for the children in the program and for some of them the first time they have been exposed to the sport.”

Group activities are part of the mentoring program for children from at-risk homes. Presently, the Shelby & Darke County agency has 65 matches with a list of over 20 children yet in need of an adult volunteer. Volunteers are required to see the children two times per month, offering support and fun, educational activities. It should be noted that match activities can be scheduled around a volunteer’s calendar, and offer a fantastic way to have a positive impact on youth in our community.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County is a non-profit, United Way member agency. We are always looking for additional volunteers. If you would like more information on enrolling your child in the program or becoming an active volunteer, please call 937-492-7611 or 937-547-9622. You can also log onto the agency website to view all the volunteer opportunities and upcoming activities at www.bigbrobigsis-shelbydarke.org.

Greenville BPW Club features Music Therapist Ashlee Carder!

Ashlee Carder

Greenville, OH. The Greenville BPW will host their monthly dinner meeting, Thursday, November 12th at the Brethren’s Retirement Community’s Private Dining Room @ 6:30 pm. The program will include a presentation by Ashlee Carder, Board Certified Music Therapist from State of the Heart Hospice. Ashlee will explain what Music Therapy is, how it is used, demonstrate some relevant exercises and discuss how we can use the music therapy toolbox for our own and our loved ones’ wellness. Ashlee studied music therapy at Ohio University for 4 years, completed a 6 month internship at State of the Heart Hospice, and took the board certification exam for music therapist in May of 2014. Ashlee works for State of the Heart Hospice, a non-profit hospice agency that provides quality care for patients and families in western Ohio and eastern Indiana, serving 12 counties in those two states. State of the Heart Hospice provides care for patients and families in the end of life, after treatment is no longer successful or possible. State of the Heart, wants to ensure the best possible quality of life for you and loved ones at the end of life. As a music therapist, Ashlee uses music therapeutically for non-musical goals, such as pain management, connection, sensory stimulation, relaxation, spiritual and emotional support. Each session may look different, using music to best fit the needs of patients and families at that time.

diamond necklace from Super Raffle we are holding

The BPW club will also have available for sale ‘super raffle’ tickets. Winners will be drawn at the December 10th meeting. You can win one of four prizes: 11 quart Kitchen Aid Food Processor, a Diamond “Shimmer” Necklace from Wieland’s Jewelers, A Spa Mani, Pedi and Facial from Mae’s Beauty Salon & Spa, or Reservations for 2 at a 2016 “Thrill of the Grill” Event at the Winery at Versailles. Tickets are also available from any BPW Club member or by contacting Susan Shields at 937-548-2592 / email dshields2@woh.rr.com or Debbie Niekamp at 419-305-2178 / email debniekamp@hughes.net. All proceeds are used to grant scholarships to the young women of Darke County. The Greenville BPW Club’s mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education, and information.

For reservations please contact Marilyn Emmons by noon on Monday, November 9th at 937/548-5824 or demmons@embarqmail.com.

DCCA ANNOUNCES GHOST WALK TOUR GUIDES AND ACTORS

Darke County Center for the Arts' twelfth annual Ghost Walk on Friday, October 30, Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1 will feature costumed tour guides who lead participants to haunted sites in downtown Greenville as well as actors who will portray characters involved in the ghostly tales.

Darke County Center for the Arts' twelfth annual Ghost Walk on Friday, October 30, Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1 will feature costumed tour guides who lead participants to haunted sites in downtown Greenville as well as actors who will portray characters involved in the ghostly tales. Tour guides include Michael Bitner, Marilyn Delk, Tim Nealeigh, and Keith Rawlins. Aaron Buchy, Samantha Buchy, Sarah Buchy, John Burkett, Karen Burkett, Larry Delk, Maxwell Jordan, Katheleen Nealeigh, and Selene Weaver will share spooky stories at some of the spots visited on the tour. The Ghost Walk will leave from Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall at 7:30 p.m. and last at least an hour and a half each night. Greenville Masonic Lodge #143 Craft Club will be serving refreshments at Memorial Hall before and after the event.

“I can't think of a better way to celebrate Halloween weekend than by taking a fun, spooky, and informative walk in downtown Greenville,” said DCCA Executive Director Andrea Jordan. “The stories can give you chills, but are still not too scary for children old enough to enjoy a long walk in the dark,” Ms. Jordan continued. The stories told during the Ghost Walk are based on tales collected by Arcanum-area resident Rita Arnold who has published several volumes recounting spooky happenings within Darke County and beyond.

Ms. Jordan also reminds potential Ghost Walk participants that some tour sites include uneven terrain and may be located in dimly lighted areas. As in years past, Ghost Walk will be held regardless of weather conditions; if seriously inclement weather occurs, the stories will be told indoors.

Tickets for the Ghost Walk cost $10, and are available at Greenville Public Library, as well as at Ann’s Gifts, Readmore's Hallmark, and Darke County Visitors Bureau Welcome Center in downtown Greenville; tickets will also be sold at the door. Tickets may be reserved by contacting DCCA at 937-547-0908 or dcca@centerforarts.com, or purchased online at www.centerforarts.net.

Autumn: A Great Time to Visit the Parks!

The Darke County Park District would like to extend an invitation to all Darke County residents and beyond to visit our twelve beautiful parks including the Tecumseh Trail Bike Path. Autumn is a lovely time of year with the heat, humidity, and insects gone and all the astounding colors developing. It won’t be too much longer before snow and ice may keep everyone tucked inside with a warm mug of hot chocolate, but for now the weather is delightful.

There’s so much to see and do that everyone can find a park for them. Shawnee Prairie Preserve not only features woods, prairie, and wetlands along its many walking trails, but also is home to the Nature Center. At the Nature Center, families can check out the live classroom featuring over thirty live animals and over twenty different species. In addition, at the bird watching window visitors can sit in comfortable armchairs indoors and watch the birds at the feeders even when the weather isn’t so nice. Bird watchers are also encouraged to participate in Project Feeder Watch happening on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 9:30-11am through April. The Nature Center also features displays on Native American culture, insects, mammals, weather, and much more.

Besides Shawnee, there are many other options. Prairie Ridge Meadow offers great fishing in Greenville Creek to those with state licenses. Winterrowd Wetlands features a fabulous observation blind to catch a glimpse of wildlife. Routzong Preserve presents brilliant fall colors, and Tecumseh Point lets visitors walk through history. Don’t forget about those last few bike rides of the year! Tecumseh Trail delivers a great opportunity for a Sunday afternoon family outing. All of the Darke County Parks are open year round from sunrise to sunset, and the Nature Center is open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 5pm.

For a full map of all of the parks or maps of individual parks, visit the Nature Center at 4267 St. Rt. 502 West or visit the website at www.darkecountyparks.org. Nature Notes, the quarterly newsletter, is also available both places and describes all the upcoming programing offered by the Park District. For any questions about YOUR Darke County Parks or upcoming programing, please call the Nature Center at (937)548-0165.

VOISARD WINS GRANDPARENT’S DAY CONTEST AT VERSAILLES HEALTH CARE CENTER

Hanna Voisard, a 5th grader at Versailles Middle School, recently won a Halloween gift basket from Versailles Health Care Center. Fourth and fifth grade students at Versailles Middle School were asked to participate in a Grandparent’s Day contest held by Versailles Health Care Center and write a short essay titled “What is Grand about your Grandparent?” Submitted essays were read by VHCC residents and patients and Voisard’s essay was chosen as the winner! VHCC then welcomed Voisard and her grandpa, Stanley Richards, of Ansonia, for lunch, and residents, patients, and staff enjoyed listening to Voisard read her essay to them.

National Grandparents Day, first proposed by a West Virginia housewife and made official by a Presidential Declaration in 1978, is a wonderful opportunity to express appreciation for our older generation. National Grandparent’s Day is always the first Sunday after Labor Day. The residents, patients and staff of Versailles Health Care Center would like to thank all who participated in this year’s Grandparent’s Day contest.

Pictured L to R: Hanna Voisard with her grandpa, Stanley Richards, of Ansonia.

FARM LAND FOR RENT

The Board of Public Affairs of the Village of New Madison, Darke County, Ohio will accept sealed bids until 5:00 p.m. on November 9, 2015 for the rent of approximately twenty-five (25) acres of certain farm ground owned by the Village located on Rush Road (part of parcel # G28-0-110-14-00-00-20102). The lease of the ground will include incorporating sludge from the New Madison Wastewater Treatment Plant when needed per Ohio EPA requirements. *Please specify the method of farming, fertilizer and chemicals to be used.

All bids shall be submitted in a sealed envelope and mailed to the New Madison Board of Public Affairs, Attn: Board of Public Affairs, P.O. Box 1, New Madison, Ohio 45346. Envelopes shall be marked “REAL ESTATE BID.” No bid shall be accepted after 5:00 p.m. on November 9, 2015. Bid opening will be at the regular monthly meeting of the Board of Public Affairs in November. Bidders need not be present at bid opening.

The Village of New Madison reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids.

Gateway Fright Night: Tonight and Tomorrow at the Greenville Public Library

AWTHS DESIGNATED #6 AND #7 HISTORIC SITES

The Arcanum Wayne Trail Historical Society #6 designated historic site is 105 North Street in Arcanum. This was the site of the Founder of Arcanum, William and Nancy (Rice) Gunder’s , log house back in 1833. At present this was the home of the late William (Bill) Gunder, the great grandson of the original founder.

We learn of the Gunder family history through William Gunder’s book The Secret Town. This is where we also obtained information for this article regarding the log house site and the founding of the town of Arcanum.

William Gunder owned substantial amount of land in section 8, 5, and 4 in Twin Township. He first built along Millers Fork in section 8. He married Nancy Rice in 1821. In 1829 William and Nancy purchased lot #11 in Ft. Jefferson, Ohio. They were pioneer residents of the town. During this time he was enlarging the log cabin to move his family back to Twin Township and harvesting more trees from the wooded, swampy land. William purchased more land in sections 5, 4, and 8. A new three room log house was built near the southeast corner of the southwest quarter of section 4.

This is the present site at 105 North Street. The property had returned to the ownership of the Gunder family in the late 1960’s when Marion and Emma Alice Gunder purchased the home. Marion was the brother of Bill Gunder who passed away in March.

William’s wife died in 1849. He then married Huldah Loy in Preble County. William and Nancy had 14 children.

The #7 and last dedicated historic site is the grave stone of William Gunder who died in 1863 and is located in the back of the old part of the Ithaca Cemetery in Twin Township off of St. Rt. 503. The cemetery and stones of William and Nancy are part of the Historic Driving Tour that was printed in brochure form and publicized this spring as part of the Ithaca tour. Bill had the tombstones restored due to the stones having an uneven foundation. This causes the stones to eventually fall over and sometimes break. One of the wishes of Bill was that the stone would be marked as a historic site since his great grandfather was the founder of Arcanum in 1849. Our historical society has marked the Founders grave in memory of Bill Gunder, our historical Societies historian and author of several books which we have for sale at the historical society house and on our website. Bill, the great grandson, was instrumental in helping to write the guidelines for our AWTHS Reference Library and took the late Anita Short’s work and organized into digital files for our library of her historical research of which was taken from the local newspapers. Bill’s other goal was to write and complete his family history of the Gunder family.

Versailles Hometown Christmas

November 12th, 13th, & 14th

• 12th - Shopping Extravaganza 9am-8pm
• 13th – Shopping 9am-9pm
• Christmas Tree Lighting, Santa’s arrival at 6pm
• Horse Drawn Carriages 6:30-9pm
• Live Nativity 6-9pm
• Caroling 5:45-9pm
• Craft Bazaar @ Versailles Christian Church 5-9pm
• Versailles Museum Open 5-7pm
• 14th – Breakfast with Santa @ the Eagles 8-10am
• Shopping 9am-1pm
• Activities for kids @ the old Firehouse 9am-12pm
• Parade 10:30am
• Versailles Museum Open 10am-2pm

A SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Versailles Area Chamber of Commerce
Midmark Corporation
Browns Sweet Shop
Johns IGA
The Versailles Policy
The Inn at Versailles

DIAMOND SPONSOR
Versailles Rotary Club
Total Image
The Herb Pantry
Edwin F. Nickol Monument
Worch Lumber Co.
Direct Wire Service, LLC
A.L. Smith Trucking Inc.
Bailey Zechar Funeral Home
Weaver Bros. Inc.
Menning Dental
Second National Bank
Kaup Pharmacy
Josh Brooks State Farm
Versailles Health Care Center
BMI Speedway
Phelan Insurance
Nature’s Reflections
The Best Bite Grill
Osgood State Bank
V.P.P. Industries

DCCA BRINGS MADELINE AND THE BAD HAT TO MEMORIAL HALL STAGE

Darke County Center for the Arts will present ArtsPower National Touring Theatre's production of Madeline and the Bad Hat at Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall in Greenville on Sunday, November 15 at 2 p.m.

Darke County Center for the Arts will present ArtsPower National Touring Theatre's production of Madeline and the Bad Hat at Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall in Greenville on Sunday, November 15 at 2 p.m. According to DCCA Artistic Director Keith Rawlins, the musical will appeal to boys as well as girls, many of whom are already fans of the Madeline books. “The bad hat of the title is Pepito, the mischievous son of the Spanish ambassador who moves in next door to Madeline,” Rawlins explained. “Pepito's escapades lead him into danger, from which Madeline rescues him; the play entertainingly shows how challenges and conflicts can be resolved, an always relevant issue that is especially important to young children exploring the boundaries of their independence,” Rawlins stated.

According to Mr. Rawlins, Madeline and the Bad Hat, one of the five Madeline books written by Ludwig Bemelmans, was deemed a classic almost immediately upon its publication in 1956. “Madeline and the other characters inhabiting her world are timeless and universal, behaving exactly like real children whether they live in Paris, as Madeline does, or anywhere else in the world,” he said.

ArtsPower productions have been seen by more than 13 million people across the U.S., and in some of the nation's top cultural centers including The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and Lincoln Center in New York City.

DCCA's Family Theatre Series was established to provide local families the opportunity to enjoy professional theatrical productions within their home community at an economical cost. Tickets are $5; these low ticket prices are made possible by the contributions provided by the following sponsors: Dayton Power & Light Company Foundation, Second National Bank, Greenville Federal, Greyson James Steyer Fund of the Darke County Foundation, Edison Community College, Gordon Orthodontics, Jordan Insurance Agency, The Andersons Inc., Wayne HealthCare, and Greenville Rotary Club.

MUSIC THERAPY MONTH IN OHIO

October 2015

State of the Heart Hospice is celebrating Ohio Music Therapy Month! Music therapists all over the state of Ohio are celebrating this month to spread awareness about the field of music therapy. According to the American Music Therapy Association, Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program. Music therapists are required to complete 1200 hours of clinical training including completing a degree program, a supervised internship, and passing a board certification examination to earn the MT-BC credential. State of the Heart Hospice employs two Board Certified Music Therapists, Amy Pearson and Ashlee Carder.

Ohio boasts the 5th highest number of board certified music therapists in the United States. Music therapists in Ohio work with clients of all ages in a variety of settings including schools, therapy centers, hospitals, nursing homes, early intervention facilities, mental health facilities, group homes, hospice care, rehabilitation, private practice, and in client's homes. Ohio music therapists are currently seeking the creation of a music therapy license at the state level through House Bill 184. The creation of a music therapy license through state recognition of the music therapy profession will help ensure that consumers in our state have access to music therapy services provided by a qualified practitioner. It will serve to both protect the public and increase their ability to choose and access healthcare services that best meet their needs.

If you would like more information about Music Therapy services offered by State of the Heart, please contact Amy or Ashlee at 937.548.2999 or 419.678.4808. Find information about music therapy at the Association of Ohio Music Therapists (www.aomt.org), the American Music Therapy Association (www.musictherapy.org), and the Certification Board for Music Therapists (www.cbmt.org). You can also find out more at www.stateoftheheartcare.org

Colors at Eidson Hike with DCP

Fall colors paint the skies of Darke County.

Darke County is awash with color just waiting to be marveled at and captured with a camera. Autumn hiking with its crisp air and lack of mosquitoes bests summer’s heat and humidity. On Halloween morning join a Naturalist at Eidson Woods Preserve where hopefully there will not only be vibrant colors above but also below.

The beech and maple forest should provide stunning golds and oranges for all to appreciate. Remember to dress for the weather as it may be muddy, and feel free to call the Nature Center for any updates on weather. The hike will take place on Saturday, Oct. 31st at 9:30am at Eidson Woods Preserve on the corner of Palestine-Union City Rd. and St. Rt. 502 West.

For questions about this hike or any of the other programs or opportunities offered by the Darke County Park District, please call the nature Center at (937) 548-0165.

SALUTE TO OUR BUS DRIVERS

Our Head Start bus drivers show their dedication and care by following all the rules to keep our children safe every day.

The Council on Rural Services and Kids Learning Place takes this opportunity to recognize and thank all bus drivers during this year’s National School Bus Safety Week from October 19 to 24. The theme for this year’s National Safety Week is “Be Smart – Be Seen. I wait in a safe place!”

We appreciate our organizations' 16 Head Start bus drivers and others that are trusted each day with approximately 1,200 young children in our 9 counties where our programs transport children to pre-school; our drivers know and believe that the safety of the children is the essential rule. We salute our drivers for their “every day matters” commitment through their attention to regulations, bus maintenance and training.

Bus safety must be a serious subject for bus drivers and every motorist on the road. The time when the children are getting on and off the bus is the greatest risk; bus drivers and motorists must be aware of the safety rules.

Drivers must observe all school bus rules; when a bus is approaching a loading or unloading zone, the flashing yellow lights mean caution because the bus will be stopping. The flashing red lights and stop arm mean STOP – no exceptions. Motorists are required to stop at least 10 feet from the front or rear of a stopped school bus that is displaying flashing red lights and not resume until lights are off and the school bus resumes motion.

Each time a motorist violates the school bus stop law, they create a real hazard for the children that are boarding or leaving the bus. School bus drivers that believe a motorist has violated the passing law will report the license number to the law enforcement agency for investigation. Do your best to keep all children safe as they leave or return home from school; drive safely and observe the rules.

Please help us honor our school bus drivers by showing your gratitude and appreciation to all these dedicated men and women for their passion, patience, and commitment to the safety of our children. Don’t hesitate with something as simple as a thank you for all they do to keep our children safe.
For more information about all our Head Start preschool programs or to enroll, please call: 1-866-627-4557 for quick contact. For more information about Council on Rural Services – programs for innovative learning, check the web site at www.councilonruralservices.org.

Kolb for Trustee on 11-3

Submitted by Matt Kolb.

My name is Matt Kolb. I was born and raised on a farm about 3 miles south west of Greenville. While growing up I worked at a neighbor’s dairy farm. I am the youngest of six boys, and my parents are Steve and Ann Kolb. I currently reside in Greenville with my wife Angie (Clark) and our two sons, Alex and Roman.

I currently serve on the Board of Directors for the Darke County Community Improvement Corporation, and the Board of Directors for Treaty Manor. In the past I was a member of Greenville Kiwanis, and I sat on the City of Greenville Park Board. I have been in community banking for over 11 years. Prior to my banking career, I was in sales for several years.

I am running for Greenville Township Trustee because I want to ensure that the community remains safe and secure with strong emergency services. I want to ensure that the roads, ditches and cemeteries of the township continue to be well maintained. I also want to help foster healthy continued economic growth for the region.

I welcome anyone with questions or concerns, to please contact me at kolb.trustee@gmail.com.

Person of Interest Sought in Family Dollar Armed Robbery

On 10-28-15 at around 5:25 pm, Family Dollar, 300 Martin St., was robbed at
gunpoint. The suspect demanded cash from the clerk. The clerk had another
employee open the cash drawer and the suspect took the money. The suspect then fled the scene towards Green St. The suspect was described as wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt, jeans, and a red sock hat. Responding officers located the grey sweatshirt in a Rumpke bin near the scene.

Shane Rayburn, age 24,from Greenville, OH is being sought as a person of
interest. Shane currently has warrants from Darke and Preble County. Darke
County has a misdemeanor warrant for Trespassing and Preble County has a felony Warrant for Vehicle Theft.

Anyone with information on the robbery is requested to contact Det. Roberts
at the Greenville Police Department at 548-4150. Anyone with information on the location of Shane Rayburn is requested to contact Greenville Police Dispatch at 548-1103.

GHS Vocal Music Boosters Support Choirs with Fundraiser

GREENVILLE, OH - The Greenville High School Vocal Music Boosters will host a ROMER’S BBQ Chicken & Pork Chop Dinner on Friday, November 20, at EUM Church, 111 Devor Street, Greenville, prior to Night Out With The Wavaires. The money raised from this event will be used by the booster organization to support the entire vocal music program at Greenville High School.

The dinner is dine-in, carry-out or drive-thru at EUM Church, located behind the St. Clair Memorial Hall. Serving time is from 4:30-6:30pm. The menu is: Choice of Meat (1/2 BBQ chicken or 2-6 oz. pork chops), cupped applesauce, bag of chips and roll. The ticket cost per dinner is $8. All tickets are pre-order, pre-pay. All orders are due by Wednesday, November 11. Tickets may be purchased from any choir student or by calling Deanna York, GHSVMB officer at (937) 467-6883, or emailing deannayork@gmail.com.

"Open Burning Advisory" for all of Darke County

On 10/20/2015 The Darke County Association of Fire Chief's, its member departments with the support of the Darke County Sheriff's Office and The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, is issuing an "Open Burning Advisory" for all of Darke County until further notice.

The unusually dry conditions warrant such an advisory with respect to all types of outdoor open burning and fires. Per ODNR regulations, with limited exceptions, open burning is not allowed during 6:00 am to 6:00 pm during the following months, March, April, May, October & November. This includes burning yard waste, wood, brush, weeds, grass and other residential/agricultural debris.

We are asking homeowners, farmers and the public to be extremely cautious during this dry period. Residents are urged to take extra precautions to prevent accidental fires to include:

1. Avoid burning of trash and debris
2. Do not discard cigarettes or other smoking materials outdoors
3. Do not have open cooking, campfires or recreational fires.
4. Charcoal from grills should not be removed until the charcoal has been thoroughly extinguished.

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:

Chewbacca is a 3 year old terrier mix. He is tan with a white chest. He reminds us of Chewy on Star wars. He is not as big as Chewy but weighs around 40 pounds. He is very friendly and knows how to sit and fetch. He has long hair. He will make a nice walking buddy and good companion. He is looking for a good home and is ready for adoption.

Oreo is a 6 month old Border collie mix. He is black and white with long hair. He is very friendly and full of energy. He loves to play fetch and have fun. He will make a good companion. He is current on his shots is looking for a good home and is ready for adoption.

Baxter the Beagle is 3 years old. He a typical beagle, black, white and brown in color and has short hair. He is current on his shots. He loves to be close to you and walks well on a leash. He will make a nice family companion and friend. He is looking for a good home and is ready for adoption.

They also have black and blond Labrador, a terrier, a mastiff mix 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.

Get your pet’s picture taken with Santa Claus. This event will be held at Wal-Mart in Greenville on Saturday November 21st in the Garden Center. This is a fund raiser for the Friends of the Shelter and helps support all the projects they do.

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

Dry Weather Makes Field Fires a Safety Concern for Farmers and Neighbors

This season, farmers are at a high risk of having a field fire. In less than a week we have had at least two field fires in the county and a few in our neighboring counties.

What is fueling these fires you may ask? We had a tremendous amount of rain this past growing season which in turn produced a corn crop with a lot of fodder. We also have had less than a half inch of rain for most of the county since corn harvest began. Add in high winds, a discarded cigarette or a blowing ember from a trash fire and you have the opportunity for a major field fire.

These field fires can grow out of control in a matter of minutes. Adjacent homes, buildings and standing crops all are at risk

Additionally the conditions present during harvest season include dry plant material and grain dust that are highly combustible. Hot equipment or engine sparks are great ignition sources. It is not uncommon for exhaust pipes or catalytic converters to exceed 1,000°F. Add a little wind and there is a perfect opportunity for a field fire.

Fighting a field fire can be quite the challenge and should be directed by the fire department in charge. You may be of assistance if you have a tillage tool ready to go to “plow” a barrier. When plowing the barrier you do not want to attempt to till the ground at the fire. You would want to keep a safe distance between the fire and your tractor. Directly tilling the ground at the fire may result in severe damage to the tractor and a risk to the operator.

Being prepared to handle field fires is important for all workers and transport drivers. Combines, tractors, grain trucks, and pick-ups should all be equipped with a trustworthy fire extinguisher as the first lines of defense. Combines should carry an ABC 10-pound fire extinguisher in the cab and a larger 20-pound unit at the ground level. Tractors and trucks are recommended to have a 5-pound minimum extinguisher available. These extinguishers should be in EACH vehicle in the field. Nothing is worse than watching the combine go up in flames while you're running to the end of the field to retrieve the fire extinguisher on the grain cart. Having an extinguisher on each piece of equipment ensures you will be ready to react on the first signs of smoke.

Greenville High School Vocal Music Boosters Present: Wavaire Camp

GREENVILLE, OH - The Greenville High School Vocal Music Boosters will be hosting their annual Wavaire kid’s camp as a part of Night Out with the Wavaires, November 17-20 at the newly renovated St. Clair Memorial Hall. The camp is open to all students in grade 3-8. Students involved will have the opportunity to perform three selections with the Wavaires at the Night Out concert, Friday, November 20. The cost for students to attend the camp is $35, which includes a t-shirt, practice CD, music and admission the night of the show.

If your child or student is interested, please contact Mrs. Chelsea Whirledge, director, at cwhirledge@greenville.k12.oh.us. The deadline for all applications is Friday, October 23.

Pictures are Wavaires and campers from last year's show.

DIETARY IS OUR ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT AT VERSAILLES HEALTH CARE CENTER

Versailles Health Care Center, a skilled nursing and rehabilitation center, celebrated National Healthcare Food Service Week, October 5th through the 11th. Healthcare facilities all over the country honored some of their most valuable team players, the behind the scenes food service employees that keep residents, patients, and staff satisfied and fit. During the week, Versailles Health Care Center gave special recognition to those who consistently prepare and serve meals. Amy Elifritz, VHCC Interim Dietary Manager, said “We believe that our residents and patients should enjoy their dining experience. Choice and quality of meal services are our number one priorities. I want to thank everyone for their dedication and hard work. Teamwork is our essential ingredient.”

Elifritz honored the dietary staff throughout the week with special treats, small gifts, and a pizza party. Staff also dressed casual for the week.

Pictured L to R: front row: Abbagale Wilburn, Cook; Holly Dirksen, Dietary Assistant; Danyel Mills, Dietary Assistant; back row: Amy Elifritz, Interim Dietary Manager; Paula Varvel, Cook; Jenny Knight, Cook; Natasha Bryson, Cook; Alma May, Cook. Not pictured: Sarah Becher, Registered Dietician; Emily Franz, Dietary Assistant, Chelsea Groff, Dietary Assistant; Kelsey Koverman, Dietary Assistant; Tonia Poth, Dietary Assistant; Emma Vallandingham, Dietary Assistant; Elias Watters, Dietary Assistant; and Kelsey Westgerdes, Dietary Assistant.

Suspect at Large After Robbery at Greenville's Family Dollar

On Wednesday, October 28th, 2015 at approximately 5:26 p.m., officers were dispatched to The Family Dollar Store, 300 Martin St., in reference to a robbery.

Officers made contact with store employees who described the suspect as being a white male, approximately 5'1 1", 190 lbs., short dark hair (nearly shaved), a pointed nose, maybe 20 years old. He was wearing a hooded gray sweatshirt with baggy blue jeans, red sock hat with white Cincinnati Reds emblem.

Employees advised that no weapon was shown. No one was injured. The suspect took money from the cash register and fled out of the front door, east bound away from the scene.

This case is currently being investigated.

A Brief Pause in Updates...

Limited internet access has prevented me from doing much updating to the site this week. Look for a large update on Friday and a return to regular daily posting afterwards.

Thanks for reading!

15TH ANNUAL “WARM WINTER WEAR FOR DARKE COUNTY CHILDREN”

The employees of the Darke County Sheriff’s Office, through the support of Sheriff Toby L. Spencer, and in conjunction with local law enforcement, Crime Stoppers, and fire and emergency medical professionals have announced plans to host the 15th annual “Warm Winter Wear for Darke County Children” program.

Thanks to generous donations from caring individuals and businesses within our community, “Warm Winter Wear” is able to provide all Darke County Schools with items they request for their students. New hats, gloves and coats are collected in the dispatch center at the Darke County Sheriff’s Office from October 1st through the middle of November and items are distributed to the schools and local families as orders are filled.

With the support and participation of the local K-Mart from 2000 - 2013, “Warm Winter Wear” was able to provide over 3,000 coats to children in Darke County. The Darke County Sheriff’s Office now welcomes Wal-Mart as a partner in providing new coats, hats and gloves to children, ages 0-13, who are in need. With their support and participation last year, the Darke County Sheriff’s Office was able to provide over 300 coats to children in Darke County.

The Darke County Sheriff’s Office wishes to thank the numerous individuals and businesses throughout the County who have made donations in previous years. Some of the donations we have received include new coats, as well as hand-made hats, scarves and gloves. We greatly appreciate the generosity of our citizens; our program could not continue without your help.

Anyone with questions about this project may contact the Darke County Sheriff’s Office at 937-548-3399, and direct your call to Dispatch.

GREEN deVILLES PERFORM AT HARVEST SOUNDS CONCERT

Members of First Universalist Church of New Madison are proud to announce Marling Band Shell located in the Greenville City Park, has been chosen to receive all proceeds from the church’s 15th annual benefit concert. The Harvest Sounds concert will be performed at 3 p.m. Sunday, November 1 at First Universalist Church of New Madison, 331 East Washington St., New Madison, Ohio. The 81 year old Marling Band Shell and the 146 year old Greenville Municipal Concert Band have a long history together. Beginning in 1869, nearly every Sunday evening from the July 4th weekend to Labor Day, beautiful music has filled the summer air. Now the venerable old band shell is in need of restoration and rebuilding, and will soon witness an extensive upgrade.

Opening the show will be First Universalist Trio, Roberta Feltman on piano, Lloyd Ketring, organist, and flutist Margaret Schryver playing “Amazing Grace”arranged by J. Cleveland . Margaret and Lloyd will then join Susan Harris, oboist and pianist to play Beethoven’s “Turkish March” op. 113, “The Easy Winners” by Scott Joplin and “Too Blue to Cry” by Lee West. Terri Fryman and son Darrell will present a piano duet of “This Little Light of Mine.” Terri appears as keyboardist with the municipal jazz band at the summer park shows, and frequently at Harvest Sounds programs, always leaving the audience asking for her return.

Headlining the program will be the popular local group, The Green deVilles. The band includes Cindy Slick, singing songs by Patsy Cline, Etta James, Adele and more, with country her main influence. Will Stacy, bass and vocals, having played with several rock bands, spent 25 years in the Trojans Band and 3 years with Four Front Band. Jeff Barga has loved drums since he was old enough to comprehend what they are. He plays a variety of music, currently working with several groups. Bill Westfall has played guitar in many types of bands over the years, playing rock, contemporary, and country. Besides the Green deVilles, he currently performs with The Avalons and works duo gigs with J. R. Price when the opportunity arises.

J. R. Price serves as director of the Greenville Municipal Concert Band and will be performing with the Green deVilles at the November 1 benefit. He is the orchestra director for Greenville City Schools and the Jazz Scene at Greenville Senior High School. He also performs with many groups throughout the Miami Valley. His talent on saxophone is legendary, and perfect for instrumental solos and backing music that others are performing.

Tickets for Harvest Sounds are $10 and may be purchased from members of First Universalist or at the door the day of performance, with no charge for students through grade 12. Following the concert will be a reception and fall refreshments. For information please call 937-548-2480.

Arcanum Youth Football

Arcanum Youth Football, Inc. a non-profit, will be soon drawing for their winner's of three lucky winner's for their raffles for 1) Matt Light Autographed Jersey 2) Cleveland Brown's Autographed Football 3) Matt Light Autographed Football - If you could to purchase a ticket before it is too late please stop by 611 Fair Street in Greenville between 8-5 - Tickets are $5.00 for one entry for one item or $10.00 for 3 entries. Go Trojans!

Edison Study Abroad Travels to France

Anticipation builds as community members, employees, and students at Edison State Community College prepare for the March 12-18, 2016, Study Abroad Tour of France. With its distinctive culture, world-class art, iconic landmarks, and seaside, France has something for everyone.

The group will spend the first part of the trip in Orleans and the Loire Valley before traveling to Paris for the balance of the stay. Highlights of the seven days spent studying abroad include touring historical sites, visiting the Eiffel Tower, experiencing French cuisine, and taking in notable museums and gardens.

“We’ve had a lot of great experiences so far and we are gearing up now for an amazing cultural experience in France,” said Eileen Thompson, Edison Study Abroad Coordinator. “Also, everything is arranged including airfare, hotels, food, transportation and sightseeing. It’s an intense time of learning where all the details are arranged, yet at the same time, it’s an unforgettable adventure.”

Edison Study Abroad is open to students for college credit as well as family and community members. “For first time or seasoned travelers, making new friends while traveling is what makes Edison’s study abroad trips so unique and enjoyable,” added Thompson.

With a price of just over $3,000, the trip includes round-trip airfare from Dayton, many meals, lodging, admission to all historic sites and a free day at the end of the tour means that travelers can opt, at their own expense, to spend the day as they please.

A limited number of spaces are available for the Study Abroad trip to France and registration is preferred by December 1. For more information, visit www.edisonohio.edu/France2016. To speak with a Study Abroad Coordinator, call Eileen Thompson at 937-778-7914 or Steve Sykes at 937-778-7946.

This Coming Monday will be Versailles Area Museum’s “Last Monday” for 2015

The Versailles Area Museum’s “Last Monday” program for 2015 and October will be held this coming Monday, October 26th at 1:00 p.m. at the museum with, for the first time ever, celebration of two Villages! The villages will be the interesting crossroads village of Brock and just down the road Frenchtown!

That’s right this month we will reminisce about days gone by in the villages of both Brock & Frenchtown. What was it like when you were growing up? Did you attend the local church or school? What stores were in the village? Do you remember playing ball or what you and your families did for fun? Did you dance the night away at the Crystal Ball and since it’s almost Halloween, how did you celebrate?

Call all your friends and family and share the news. We want all of you to come, sit and share your story or just listen to others we share theirs. We look forward to learning more about Brock & Frenchtown.

Please join us for all the interesting tales and conversation that happen at each of these fun filled events!

The afternoon is always capped off with a great dessert and a cool beverage. What better way to spend your late summer afternoon?

Also we will be planning our exciting 2016 programs and want your ideas for programs.

Mark your calendars for Sunday November 8 for the Gospel Sing at Memorial Hall in Greenville.

Soul Purpose

Brenda Wise

On Sunday, November 8, Cancer Association of Darke County will hold their annual gospel concert fundraiser. It will be held again this year at Memorial Hall from 3 to 5 pm. The hall has been remodeled, so this will be an opportunity to hear some great groups sing and also see the revamped hall.

Admission is free. A freewill offering will be taken. All proceeds will go to the cancer association. Refreshments will be served along with a Bake Sale.

Some of the groups performing are: Soul Purpose, based out of Grove City, Ohio, offers a "one-of-a-kind" traditional southern gospel sound that awakens the spirit and excites the soul. Although their ministry began in 1972 as The Sounds of Joy, in 1995 they began a fresh start with the new name Soul Purpose. The name just seemed to be the perfect fit as they proclaim “Your Soul is our Purpose!” It doesn't take long to realize this group LOVES the Lord. From beginning to end, their program conveys the joy and excitement of having a relationship with Jesus.

Soul Purpose has carried the Gospel to numerous churches, fairs, conventions and arts festivals in Ohio and surrounding states including the National Quartet Convention, Ohio State Convention of Baptists, and Northern Gospel Singing Convention.

Also singing that afternoon will be Brenda Wise. Brenda lives in West Alexandria, Ohio. Music has been an important part of her life for as long as she can remember. She has a beautiful voices and enjoys sharing that gift with others. She is part of the Praise and Worship Team and member of Triumphant Christian Center in Greenville has shared her talent in many churches and events throughout the surrounding in area. She describes herself as a mother, grandmother, animal lover and most importantly a Christian. The public is invited.

Church Bazaar To Be Held

Pumpkin Patch, Hayrides and More at Ansonia First Church of God on October 31st

THE OLD ARCANA LAUNCHES “THANKS FOR GIVING CAMPAIGN” TO BENEFIT DARKE COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP EMERGENCY HOMELESS SHELTER

At the end of October, The Old Arcana restaurant in Arcanum Ohio will be launching their first annual “Thanks for Giving Campaign”: A very special charitable effort created to serve those in our community who are in need of the most basic necessities in life: food and shelter.

The Old Arcana has connected with the Darke County Community Action Partnership (CAP) as the recipient of their campaign donations for the season. Darke County Community Action Partnership, (a United Way Partner Agency), serves those in need in Darke County through multiple programs, with the ultimate mission of “working in partnership with local communities to eliminate the causes and conditions of poverty and to promote individual independence and self-sufficiency.”

One CAP’s key programs include the Darke County Emergency Homeless Shelter, which provides emergency food and temporary housing for those who have become displaced or cannot afford food. The shelter is funded by the Homeless Crisis Response Program (HCRP) Grant from the state, the Darke County United Way and local donations. Due to aging and normal wear and tear, the shelter is in need of additional assistance. Currently, the shelter is in need of numerous items to effectively help those in need.

• Non-perishable food items for the Community Food Bank
• Volunteers for structural and maintenance assistance to the shelter building
• Paint, flooring replacement, appliances and / or appliance repair
• Beds, dressers and a baby crib
• Twin and full zippered plastic mattress covers
• Twin and full sized sheets
• Bath towels and wash cloths
• Kitchen towels and wash cloths
• Laundry soap, personal hygiene & toiletry items
• Diapers in multiple sizes

Through the “Thanks for Giving Campaign,” The Old Arcana is asking the local community to join them in supporting the Shelter throughout the Holiday Season in 3 ways:

1. Donation of needed items. Those interested in donating non-perishable food items or any of the daily living items listed above may drop items off at The Old Arcana, 109 W. George St. in Arcanum, during regular business hours from October 26 through December 20. Evening drop off hours will be scheduled once a week as well and will be announced via social media.
2. Attend the Campaign Fundraiser. The Old Arcana will also be hosting a special Collaborative “Multi-Chef Dinner” on Saturday, November 21st featuring a special tasting menu by Chef Jeffrey Besecker (The Old Arcana), Chef Zackary Weiner (Rue Dumaine, Taste, Olive), Brendon Miller (Lucky’s Tap Room & Eatery, Roost), and Nathan Heil (Pies and Pints). A portion of the proceeds from the evening will be donated directly to the shelter. Tickets for the event will be available online and at the restaurant by October 26th. Details regarding the evening’s special menu will be announced on that day.
3. Become a “Thanks for Giving Campaign” Business Partner. The Old Arcana is in search of area business partners to help spread the word about the shelter’s need and expand the visibility of the campaign as much as possible. Tools to help market the campaign will be made available. Businesses interested in becoming a partner in the “Thanks for Giving Campaign” should contact the restaurant at 937-692-0068 or email leslie@oldarcana.com.

Jeff Besecker, owner and executive Chef at The Old Arcana said, “As business owners, we are so very grateful for the many blessings and opportunities we enjoy, from the roof over our head to the delicious food that is placed on our tables every day. We truly believe in the concept of giving back, and we hope members of the local community and our business neighbors will join us in our efforts to do what we can to help others during this season of giving.”

David Allen Coe, Live in Concert in Versailles

All Tickets Ordered on or after 10/16 will be held at Will Call!

• Date: Oct. 24, 2015
• Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
• Show starts at 7:00 p.m.
• Tickets: $20 (pre-sale) / $25 (door) – Visit http://www.bmikarts.com/Events_c_385.html to pre order your tickets!
• Headliner: David Allan Coe
• Opening Act: Kings Landing

David Allan Coe (born in Akron, Ohio on September 6, 1939) is an American songwriter, outlaw country music singer, and guitarist who achieved popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. As a singer, his biggest hits were "Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile", "The Ride", "You Never Even Called Me by My Name", "She Used to Love Me a Lot", and "Longhaired Redneck".

His best-known compositions are the No. 1 successes "Would You Lay With Me (In a Field of Stone)" (which was covered by Tanya Tucker) and "Take This Job and Shove It" (which was later covered by Johnny Paycheck and inspired a hit movie).

GENERAL ADMISSION is exactly that—first come, first seated. The numbers on GA tickets are just a form of tracking - like a serial number. Just disregard them and enjoy wherever you end up sitting. But don't forget: take up just one seat so that there is room for everyone. Click here for a general layout of venue

ALL TICKET SALES ARE FINAL. Please note that there can be no ticket refunds or exchanges.

TICKET PROBLEMS If your tickets were never received in the mail, please contact us for assistance.

The Greenville Athletic Boosters is sponsoring a FOOTBALL DROP

The Greenville Athletic Boosters will be sponsoring a Football Drop again this year. This is a great opportunity to support our student athletes while taking a chance to win $1,000. The cost of the ticket is $20 and the winning football will be “dropped” at the last home football game on October 30th. Along with a chance to win $1,000, the ticket includes a complimentary membership to the Greenville Athletic Boosters club for the 2015-2016 school year.

Raffle tickets will be available for purchase at any home sporting event and also during tailgating before the home football games. You may also purchase a ticket by contacting a Greenville Athletic Booster Officer, any of the Coaches or the Athletic Department.

All proceeds from this raffle will go into the General Operating Fund of the Greenville Athletic Boosters.

The Boosters would like to thank you for your continued support, we could not do it without you!

Greenville City Schools Renewal Operating Levy & High School Open House

Submitted by Doug Fries, Superintendent of Greenville City Schools

Greenville Schools has an operational renewal levy on the ballot for the November 3rd Election. I emphasize this is a renewal levy with NO NEW TAXES. This is a 5.50 mill general operations levy for the district. It will appear as issue 6 on the ballot. This levy has been in existence since 1996 and has been approved with each renewal ever since by our community. Please be sure to vote in the November 3rd Election. Remember Issue 6 is the renewal issue about Greenville City Schools.

Also, Greenville Schools will hold two open houses on our newly renovated High School that are open to the public. These will be held Saturday October 31, 2015 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. and Sunday, November 1, 2015 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. The public is invited into the high school to see the renovations. Thank you to the entire community for your support of the high school renovation project.

Any questions about the renewal levy or high school open house, feel free to contact Superintendent, Doug Fries at Memorial Hall or by phone at 548-3185.

BEGGARS’ NIGHT AND HALLOWEEN PARADE RETURNS DOWNTOWN GREENVILLE

On Thursday, October 29th, downtown Greenville will be transformed into a trail of Halloween treats for elementary school aged children. The Early Bird/BlueBag Media, Main Street Greenville and downtown businesses are pleased to bring this safe Halloween event to the community!

There are many ways to join in the fun, including a costume contest and costume parade provided by The Early Bird/BlueBag Media. Anyone who chooses to enter the costume contest will walk in this parade, from W. 5th Street (next to Wayne Cinema), down Broadway and finish at the circle. The costume judging will take place at the circle.

Cash prizes will be awarded in each of the seven categories of costumes, with first place winning $30, second place winning $20 and third place winning $10!

The seven prize categories are:

1. Tiny Tot Girls - up to age 6
2. Tiny Tot Boys - up to age 6
3. Masked Girls - ages 6-10
4. Masked Boys - ages 6-10
5. Masked Boys & Girls - ages 11-16
6. Best Costumed Adult
7. Best Masked Group

Schedule of events:

• 6:30 pm - To participate in the costume contest, line- up on W. 5th St. - next to Wayne Cinema
• 7:00 pm - Costume Contest Parade begins, will end at the circle.

After costume judging (approx. 7:45) - Beggars' begin trick-or-treating!

Also, there is a great photo opportunity available at the Circle with a luminary display. Don’t forget to stop by the Circle and take your pictures!

The “begging” and luminary event has been organized as a way for downtown businesses to say thank you to the community for doing business downtown. The Beggars’ Night committee members are: Antonia Baker (Second National Bank), Joan Brandt (Commercial Printing), Julie Kessen (Granny’s Corner), Mary Lane (Staffmark), and Amber Garrett (Main Street Greenville).

Please no political campaigning. We ask that each participating business pass out kid-friendly items and not handouts or flyers. Only pre-registered businesses will be able to distribute candy during the event.

Main Street Greenville is a non-profit organization that supports downtown Greenville, Ohio through stimulating and supporting revitalization efforts, historic preservation and economic growth.

COFFEE WITH THE COMMISSIONER

October is the official start of the Holiday season. We have Halloween, then Thanksgiving and then the big one, Christmas.

This is always the busiest time of the year for everyone, so with keeping that in mind, October has been the last month of the year that Commissioner Stegall has his “Coffee with the Commissioner”. This year is no different.

Next Saturday, October 24th, from 8:00 until 10:00 a.m. Commissioner Stegall will be at the Gatehouse in Wayne Lakes Park for the last meeting this year. The Gatehouse is located at the Park entrance off of St. Rt. 121. This is a new venue and the Commissioner is looking forward to meeting people from Wayne Lakes and the southern part of the County. Come on out, have a good cup of coffee and even breakfast if you wish, and discuss the Counties operation’s, plans, and business with your elected official. This is a good opportunity for all to get to know each other. The “Coffee” meetings will then continue next January, 2016. Let’s have a good turnout on October 24th, at the Gatehouse in Wayne Lakes Park from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m.

Hope to see you there!!

The Pitsburg Church of the Brethren will host the Sojourner Quartet on Sunday, November 1, 2015 at 6 PM.

Sojourner Quartet is a Christian music ministry based in Findlay, Ohio. Sojourner began in 1991 as a contemporary Christian group playing their own instruments and writing many of the songs they performed. As their popularity spread, they began to play throughout the country. In 1998, the group went solely southern gospel. As their ministry grew, they shared the platform with many of today's top southern gospel groups including The Booth Brothers, The Hoppers, The Isaacs, Ivan Parker, The Crabb Family, The Tally Trio, Triumphant Quartet and many more. Over the years, several songs released to southern gospel radio made the charts in the USA and in Europe.

These four men are completely devoted to Jesus Christ not only through their music ministry, but through their personal lives. Their mission is to glorify God, the Father, by witnessing the gospel of His Son, Jesus Christ to as many people as possible, regardless of their denomination, through their music and personal testimony.

The church is located at the west edge of Pitsburg, Ohio at 8376 Pitsburg-Laura Road. A love offering will be accepted and refreshments will be served following the concert.

OSU Alumni Club of Darke County Sponsors Annual Tailgate Blood Drive

Blood Donors, on November 10 may think they are at an OSU Football Tailgate Party. They will be close to the truth as the OSU Alumni Club of Darke County sponsor their Annual Tailgate Blood Drive from 12:30 to 6:30 at the Greenville Church of the Brethren at 421 Central Avenue.

Amid game day decorations, Buckeye memorabilia will be given as door prizes and donors will be offered a large variety of goodies, including tasty buckeyes after donating, or attempting to donate. The OSU Alumni Club of Darke County hopes to make this year’s number of donations a record.

This annual blood always has the feeling of a party as Buckeye decorations, including a larger than life Brutus, are everywhere. The tasty buckeyes that are served along with cheese, cookies and juices are added incentive to those who choose to give toward saving someone’s life with their donation.

Donors are encouraged to make an appointment for an easy in, easy out donor experience by scheduling a time on line at www.DonorTime.com, or call 800,388.GIVE. Donors are required to present photo identification with full name to donate. Donors must be at least 16 and weigh at least 110 lbs. and be in generally good health. Sixteen year olds must bring a signed CBC parental consent form with them.

Plan to be part of the Buckeye spirit, enjoy the tailgate party and feel good about donating your blood to help someone in need.

Summit Soccer Academy at The Academy

Want to improve your skills or take part in the juggling challenge? Join Summit Soccer Academy at The Academy on Riffle St. In Greenville this winter, beginning Dec. 5, send registration to Summit Soccer Academy at 4948 Timberlawn Court or register at our website www.summitsocceracademy.com. Registration includes training jersey, player evaluation at the conclusion of the camp and the opportunity to earn awards for personal achievements during the camp. Also look for try out dates for spring Academy teams

Edison Brings Peace Week Events to Campus

Josh Weil

Held in conjunction with the Dayton Literary Peace Prize (DLPP), Edison State Community College’s English and Communications faculty will be hosting a week of peace-focused events beginning October 26. All Peace Week events will be held at Edison’s Piqua Campus and are free and open to the community. The week’s events include:

• Monday, October 26: The Diversity Discussion Group sponsored by the English Department will meet to discuss select works of this year’s Dayton Literary Peace Prize Lifetime Achievement winner Gloria Steinem at 12:15 p.m. in the Library’s Early Childhood Resource Center. William Loudermilk, Beka Lindeman, and Librarian Katherine Magner will host this discussion.
• Monday, October 26: A reading of selections from this year’s winning DLPP works at 1:45 p.m. in room 456.
• Tuesday, October 27: A special viewing and discussion of the 2014 blockbuster hit American Sniper will be held at 7:00 p.m. in the Robinson Theatre. William Loudermilk and Steve Marlowe will host a discussion of the movie following the viewing.
• Wednesday, October 28: Ohio poet Fred McLeod will share his work related to the theme of peace at 1:30 p.m. in room 456.
•  Friday, October 30: All entries for this year’s English Department sponsored writing contest are due by 12:00 p.m. via email to William Loudermilk at wloudermilk@edisonohio.edu.
• Monday, November 2: Keynote guest speaker and a recipient of the 2015 DLPP, Josh Weil will speak about his winning debut novel, “The Great Glass Sea,” which tells the epic story of twin brothers who have been inseparable since childhood, living on their uncle’s farm. The novel chronicles love, loss, and light in an all-to-real alternate near future Russia. Weil’s debut novel has been named a New York Times Editor’s Choice and Powell’s Indispensable Selection. In addition to winning the DLPP and the GrubStreet National Book Prize, Weil’s book has been short-listed for The Center for Fiction’s Flaherty-Dunnan First Novel Prize and the Library of Virginia’s Literary Award in Fiction and was long-listed for VCU Cabell Award. Weil also wrote the award-winning book, “The New Valley” and has had other fiction writing appear in Granta, Esquire, Tin House, and One Story. He has written non-fiction for The New York Times, The Sun, Poets & Writers, and Time.com. Weil will speak at 12:15 p.m. in the Robinson Theater.
• During the week, the “peace walk” will be on display near the Myers Vacarro Art Gallery and feature a graffiti wall, selfie station, and a series of quotations about peace.

Inspired by the 1995 Dayton Peace Accords that ended the war in Bosnia, the DLPP is the only international literary peace prize awarded in the United States. The Prize celebrates the power of literature to promote peace, social justice, and global understanding. The 2015 DLPP Awards Ceremony will be held on Sunday, November 1 at the Benjamin J. Shuster Center in Dayton. This is a sold out event.

For more information regarding Peace Week, contact William Loudermilk at wloudermilk@edisonohio.edu.

Ohio State Working to Update Tri-State Fertility Recommendations for Soybeans, Corn and Wheat

The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences is looking to recruit growers interested in helping researchers update the soybean, corn and wheat fertility recommendations for Ohio, Michigan and Indiana.

Steve Culman, an Ohio State University Extension soil fertility specialist, is seeking growers to participate in a project to look at nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in soybeans, corn and wheat as part of an overall effort to update the tri-state fertility recommendations. OSU Extension is the outreach arm of the college.

“The project involves casting a broad net to collect data from a large number of farms to determine the most economical and most effective fertilization rates for soybean, corn and wheat,” he said. “The current tri-state recommendations are over 20 years old and need to be updated to reflect the growing conditions now.

“Farming has changed substantially in the past 20 years, so we are trying to get the most accurate information we can to either revise or update the recommendations.”
Culman said he is hoping to work with 30 growers per crop for the duration of the research project, which will involve applying fertilizer to some replicated strip plots and leaving others without fertilizer. Farmers would get to choose which nutrient they’d like to work with and be allowed a large degree of flexibility in the plot layout and application rates, he said.

“We are ideally looking for farms that help capture a diversity of soil types and particularly those fields that test low in phosphorus and potassium,” Culman said.

The data that will be collected during the project includes:

• Soil samples before planting.
• Leaf tissue samples for nutrient analysis at early reproductive stage.
• Grain yields and nutrient analysis of grain at harvest.

Participants will also be asked to complete a short questionnaire about soil management, he said.

“Now is a good time to think about your fields and their nutrient needs now that harvest season is ongoing and growers will then start fall fertilizer applications on their fields,” Culman said. “Another benefit to farmers is that they will have all the lab analyses done at no charge and be supplied with a report on what the results are and what that means for their specific farms.”

The tri-state fertilizer research project is funded through check-off dollars through the Ohio Soybean Council and the Ohio corn and small grains marketing programs, he said.

Darke County growers interested in participating in the research project can contact Sam Custer 937.548.5215 or custer.2@osu.edu. More information can be found at go.osu.edu/fert-trials

Upcoming Events at The Arcanum Public Library

Fall is here! It is always such an exciting season. The weather turns cooler, the sky a bit bluer, the days a bit shorter, and there is color everywhere. It seems there is so much to do in such a short season! The Arcanum Public Library is adding to the fun with lots of activities planned for the rest of October, November, and even into December.

Tuesdays here at the library are perfect for bringing in your preschooler for Storytime. There are two sessions each Tuesday in October; 10:00am and 11:00am. Come for stories, songs, crafts and fun! The Storytime sessions on October 27th will be extra special. The 10:00 session will be Halloween themed. Feel free to dress the kids up in a costume! The 11:00 session will be a Fall Harvest theme. Both sessions will have stories, snacks, fun and crafts for all!

Also on Tuesdays, the afterschool club meets until 4:45pm. AfterWords is a chance for kids in grades 1-4 to come meet their friends after school, enjoy a craft, a snack, and some games. The fall party for AfterWords will be on October 27th. Come join the fun!

With Election Day coming up in November, the library is offering kids a chance to cast their votes here at the library for a favorite literature character. There will be ballots available all week, November 2nd – 6th. Votes will be tallied, and the results posted.

That same week, the library is pleased to announce a “Taste of the Holidays” dessert sampler. It will be on Thursday, November 5th, starting at 6:30pm. Join us by bringing in a favorite dessert for fellow patrons to sample, along with a copy of the recipe. Beverages will be served.

On Friday, November 13th, the library will be showing a double feature! Movie times are at 10:00am and at 2:00pm. Titles will be announced later. Popcorn will be served!

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of preparing for the holidays? Arcanum Public Library is hosting a one hour “Organized by Olive” session to help guide you through meal planning, setting limits, selecting gifts, and more. On Monday, November 16th, come hear a professional organizer share organizing tips and strategies to help you better enjoy the holiday season. The program will begin at 6:30pm.

There will be a two session “Knit a Scarf for Christmas!” class for older kids and adults. No knitting experience needed. The first class will be on Thursday, November 19th from 6:00pm – 7:30pm, and will cover the basics of casting on, and some knitting stiches. You can then bring your project to the next session for help in finishing it. It will be on Thursday, December 10th at 6:00pm – 7:30pm. The library may have some supplies on hand, but patrons are asked to bring their own if possible. Knitting needles (size 8 are perfect for beginners) and worsted weight yarn are all that is needed.

As always, you can call the library for more information at 937-692-8484 or check out our website at www.arcanumpubliclibrary.org.

Stagelight Players Present Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap

Sam Telford (L) and Matthew Beisner rehearse
Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap.

The Edison Stagelight Players will make their debut performance of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, from October 23 to November 1. All performances will be held in the Robinson Theater at the Piqua Campus.

The Mousetrap is a popular murder mystery tale set in an English country house in 1952 that chronicles the story of a group of strangers who are stranded during the middle of a snowstorm. Amongst the group is a murderer. Appealing to viewers of all ages, The Mousetrap engrosses audiences in solving the whodunit.

Director Emily Beisner is enthused about directing this popular story. “I’m delighted to be back in the director’s chair this fall. I wanted to do something that we have never done before and The Mousetrap presented that opportunity.”

While this year’s cast is small, the men and women involved bring a lot to the table. “It has been quite the change rehearsing with only 9 actors, but they have been working very hard and I couldn’t be happier with my cast,” added Beisner.

“We have two new actors this fall that have never been on stage. One of the new actors is Jennifer Householder, who plays the lead female Mollie Ralston. The second new actor is Chad Evans, who will be voicing our Radio Announcer. Usually, this part is recorded and played as a sound cue, but I loved his voice so much, that I wanted him to portray the Radio Announcer.”

The remaining cast consists of veteran actors such as Matt Beisner, who plays Detective Sergeant Trotter and Kevin Grogean, who plays Paravicini. There’s also Patrick Stone as Giles, Chris Garner as Metcalf, Sam Telford as Chris Wren, Becky Ritz as Miss Casewell, and Sandy Hartley as Mrs. Boyle.

Performances are scheduled for Friday, October 23; Saturday, October 24; Friday, October 30; Saturday, October 31 at 7:30 p.m. each night. A special matinee performance will be held on Sunday, November 1 at 3 p.m.

Tickets for the show are seven dollars for adults, five dollars for students and three dollars for seniors and can be purchased with cash at the door. Children 12 and under get in free. For more information, contact Karen Baker at 937-381-1502 or kbaker@edisonohio.edu.

Cast:

Mollie Ralston: Jennifer Householder, Pleasant Hill, Ohio
Giles Ralston: Patrick Stone, Piqua, Ohio
Christopher Wren: Sam Telford, Troy, Ohio
Mrs. Boyle: Sandy Hartley, Arcanum, Ohio
Major Metcalf: Chris Garner, Piqua, Ohio
Miss Casewell: Becky Ritz, Sidney, Ohio
Mr. Paravicini: Kevin Grogean, Fletcher, Ohio
Detective Sergeant Trotter: Matthew Beisner, Troy, Ohio
Radio Voice: Chad Evans, Union City, Ohio

Crew:

Director: Emily Beisner, Troy, Ohio
Stage Manager: Lindsay Ross, Piqua, Ohio
Light Board Operator: Jess Ritz, Piqua, Ohio
Sound Board Operator: Emily Beisner, Troy, Ohio
Costume Designer: William Loudermilk, Dayton, Ohio
Set Design: Jayson Alan Grigsby, New Bremen, Ohio