Friday, September 28, 2018

SUSPECTED IMPAIRED DRIVER HITS SHERIFF’S CRUISER

No comments:
On September 27, 2018 at approximately 3:00 PM, the Darke County Sheriff’s Office received multiple 911 calls reporting a possible impaired driver on US Rt. 127 in southern Darke County. Two separate callers described a white pick-up truck driving all over the road and down into the ditch. They also described near crashes involving the suspect truck. Darke County deputies were dispatched to the direction the truck was traveling based on the information the 911 callers were giving. Two Darke County deputies in a single marked cruiser posted themselves in the median of US Rt. 127 north of Sebring Warner Road in preparation to stop the pick-up truck as it approached them traveling northbound. Deputies observed the vehicle driving erratically. The pick-up truck drove off the left side of the roadway traveling north on US Rt. 127 and struck the front of the Sheriff’s cruiser sitting in the median. The pick-up truck continued north on US Rt. 127 eventually coming to a stop because of the disabling damage to the vehicle. Airbags were deployed on both vehicles and the cruiser sustained heavy damage. Both deputies were able to get out of the vehicle and pursued the pick-up truck on foot to secure the driver until other deputies arrived. Two of the original 911 callers stopped to assist the deputies.

Greenville Township Fire and Rescue units responded to the scene. The Ohio Highway State Patrol also responded and conducted the crash investigation. The two deputies were transported to Wayne Healthcare by EMS and were treated and released with minor injuries. The driver of the pick-up truck was transported to Wayne Healthcare by EMS and his status is unknown at the time of this release.

This case remains under investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

SUNDAY IS THE NEW FUNDAY!

No comments:

Join us for SUNDAY NIGHT LIVE – a FREE weekly outreach event open to all in the community at First Presbyterian Church. We invite everyone to come try out our new Children’s Program, experience new ideas for learning Christian values and meet our new Youth & Family Life Director, Paige Ervin.

Come at 5:00 p.m. for a FREE dinner and enjoy delicious food (taco salad, pizza, hamburgers, chicken strips, etc.) that includes dessert, in a family style setting before the weekly programs begin at 5:30 p.m. Adult small groups, Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group and Sparks, our new children’s program, gather for 90 minutes for their respective programs. From 7-7:30 p.m. the evening comes to a close with an uplifting time of praise and prayer to start your week off right!

Sunday Night Live provides something for everyone ages 0 – 99. Infants and children up to 2 years of age will be cared for in the nursery and will be entertained by lots of nursery toys while learning important age-appropriate social skills. They will also be taught some basic biblical principles and/or lessons through song.

Children ages 2 through 5th grade will take part in our new children’s program, Sparks. Divided into smaller groups determined by age, children will play age-appropriate games, create art projects and sing songs that enhance the scripture or lesson taught each week. Activities for this age group are planned in a way that encourages lesson retention and real life application for kids to grow in their spirituality and faith.

Kids in 6th – 12th grade will meet for Youth Group with our new Youth & Family Life Director, Paige Ervin. Paige will lead our youth in fun activities, meaningful conversations and relatable Biblical lessons. Some of the Youth activities throughout the year include a youth retreat, a Christian concert/festival in the summer, church and community service projects and a trip to Kings Island. Other youth activities could include paint-ball, Putt-Putt golf and the driving range, bikes rides and/or nature hikes. Teens will learn how to incorporate biblical principles and Christian values into their everyday lives as they grow in their faith and build lasting friendships.

Adults are encouraged to participate in small group meetings that are currently participating in the Congregational Study, “The Next Best Step,” a book/study written by Gordon Bell. Upon completion of the congregational study, small groups are encouraged to continue meeting weekly. Groups can choose another Christian book to study, a Right Now Media study, embark on a Christian education venture or just be a support to each other in our journey of faith. As we move through the year, Christian education opportunities (classes, studies) will increase and provide more options for anyone interested in developing a deeper faith and more meaningful relationship with God and other Christians.

Aging Smart

No comments:
OSU Extension, Darke County, has scheduled an “Aging Smart” 3 week program. Older adults, 65+ are the fastest growing population group in the United States. Older adults want to remain independent and live at home, so we will cover three areas to help: Preventing Falls in Your Home, Keeping Safe, and Aging & Eating. These classes will be held October 16, 23 and 30, 2018 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm.

October 16, 2018 – Aging and Eating
October 23, 2018 – Keeping Safe
October 30, 2018 – Preventing Falls in Your Home

The “Aging Smart” classes will be held at the OSU Extension Learning Center at 603 Wagner Avenue, Greenville OH 45331. There is no charge for this class.

To register, or for further information, please call OSU Extension at 937-548-5215 or email Diane Barga at barga.8@osu.edu. There is a limit of 20 and registration needs to be complete by October 10, 2018.

Aktion Club helps serve a record Empowering student turnout

No comments:
Mandy Grooms and Jesse Younker, both Aktion Club members, enjoyed meeting the kids and distributing the snacks on the kickoff evening of 2018 tutoring.
The Aktion Club, an organization sponsored by Kiwanis of
Greenville, has supported Empowering Darke County Youth
with a recent donation. Aktion Club Treasurer David Olinger and
club member Matt Strickland spent $150, approved by the club,
to purchase snacks for EDCY tutoring.
GREENVILLE – Empowering Darke County Youth had a record 100 student requests for its first week of After School tutoring. This was a major increase over the 79 received at the beginning of 2017.

Helping Empowering and Edison State tutors get the program off to a good start were Aktion Club members Mandy Grooms and Jesse Younker, who distributed snacks and drinks to the forty Greenville K-8 students showing up the first day. Treasurer David Olinger and member Matt Strickland had gone on a shopping spree and purchased enough snacks and drinks to last several weeks. Aktion Club is a service program sponsored by Kiwanis of Greenville.

Empowering thanks club members for their generous donation. They have made the snack issue – at least in the beginning – a non-issue. It was also appreciated that they helped distribute the snacks and got to meet the kids they were helping.

According to Bob Robinson, Program Coordinator, all students so far have been confirmed to participate in the program. Resources in 2017 only allowed 59 student confirmations, leaving many students waiting for help. “Our goal this fall was no waiting list,” he said. “We spent most of August making sure we had the resources and procedures in place to make that goal a reality.

“Assistant Program Coordinator Kay Sloat did most of the heavy lifting,” Robinson continued. “We had discussed how we were going to make sure support materials, and students, were grouped by grade or skill level. She made it happen.”

Attendance during Week 1 ranged from 40 to 49 students, compared to 28 to 34 in 2017. Student needs included reading, comprehension, writing, math and homework. Despite the increase in the number of students, student to tutor ratio was still about 3-to-1.

Although there were student increases at all grade levels, the biggest were for kindergarten and middle school, 5 to 8. “It was a little chaotic the first couple of days,” Robinson noted. “Once we adapted to the different grade level increases, the rest of the week went smoothly and, I thought, successfully.”

Robinson added there will likely be many more students requesting help over the next few weeks. “We need volunteers,” he said. “We have procedures set up to give volunteers the tools to work with preferred age groups and subject matter. It’s a good system and it is adaptable to changing needs. We just need adults to help us.” He added that for the safety and comfort of all, volunteers will be subject to background checks.

The Empowering Mission: Empowering Darke County Youth is a United Way Partner Agency providing After School and Summer Tutoring programs to assist students in the areas of language arts and math with the goal of Strong Students for a Strong Community.

Local Author to Speak About His Latest Book at Edison State

No comments:
Want to listen and laugh? If the answer is a resounding yes, come to Edison State Community College’s Piqua campus, East Hall, Room 456, on October 1, at 7 p.m. Edison State faculty members will introduce you to Tug and Earl, the down-home, crazy characters in humorist John Crusey’s latest book, “Tug and Earl Did What?”

Cathy Essinger, retired Edison State English professor and former Ohio Poet of the Year, will emcee the program and book signing.

Reviewer Vivian Blevins writes, “This collection of stories will have you laughing. Tug and Earl are two eccentrics who never met a challenge they couldn’t overcome whether it’s launching a moped over the Snake River Canyon or checking to see which is faster, lightning or greased lightning.”

Blevins indicates, “Their conversations will delight you, make you want to tell your friends these stories: Tug is abducted by aliens or Tug and Earl encounter ghosts or prepare to chase tornados. It’s about snot bubbles, manly parts, tattoos in private places, and bra snapping in a world where everything can be repaired with a little cardboard and duct tape.”

The cover of this little volume by artists Aaron Lindeman and Robin Heintz will have you looking at it again and again to determine how Heintz captured their rusty, paint-peeling junkyard vehicle so expertly and how Lindeman imagined what these vulgar, idea-a-minute characters would look like. We are teased by their images as we wonder what they will be up to next.

For $7.95 you can order this book on Amazon, and it will arrive at your mailbox within a few days. Or plan to attend on Oct. 1, meet author John Crusey, and buy an autographed copy. Even your friends who are non-readers will delight in this as a holiday gift, and you’ll want to read it before wrapping it up and tying a big red bow on the package.

INSPIRE CAREER CONCERT: Linking Schools and Local Businesses

No comments:
Mercer, Auglaize, Shelby and Darke Counties will be hosting an inaugural event, INSPIRE CAREER CONCERT for high school seniors. The event will be held on October 3 at Eldora Speedway during Manufacturing Week. The goal is to actively link High School Seniors from a 4-county area to local businesses for future internships, summer, or full-time employment possibilities in the future. This is an inspirational event focused on helping students find their voice and career path. This is a great opportunity to bring High School Seniors together with local employers in order to make a meaningful personal connection before they graduate. The senior event will include a career fair (both in the morning and afternoon), two keynote speakers, and a band to keep the students energized.

The keynote speakers will include Jeremy Bout who is the President of Edge Factor. After spending 12 years using technology to bring ideas to life in the manufacturing industry, he leads the Edge Factor team in producing inspiring films and accompanying interactive resources to inspire the next generation of makers. As a critically acclaimed filmmaker, public speaker, and entrepreneur, Jeremy’s story-driven keynote presentations include underlying life skills lessons, such as hard work leads to success - it won’t be handed to you, you will be pushed out of your comfort zone, and failure stinks, but it’s what you do when you fail that defines you. The second keynote speaker is Michelle Poler. She is the Founder of Hello Fears, a social movement empowering millions to step outside of their comfort zone and tap into their full potential. She has spoken at TEDx, Google, INBOUND, Facebook, ESPN, Netflix, Procter and Gamble, Microsoft, Toyota, World Domination Summit, Festival of Media Global, and many more. Michelle has empowered over 20,000 students at schools and universities around the world to live with courage, find their authenticity, and embrace their growth paths.

There are nearly 1000 students from Mercer, Auglaize, Shelby, and Darke Counties registered with almost 100 local businesses attending. We continue to believe that our best hope for talent acquisition is right here at home.

This event is a great example of collaboration in action. The event is being sponsored by Hometown Opportunity, Auglaize Mercer Business Education Alliance (AMBE), Partnering for Progress, Darke County Economic Development, Workforce Partnership of Shelby County, Mercer County ESC, Auglaize County ESC, Midwest Regional ESC, Sidney Shelby Economic Partnership, Auglaize County, Mercer County, Darke County, Shelby County, City of Sidney, NKTelco, Eldora Speedway, and Ohio Means Jobs in Mercer, Auglaize and Shelby Counties.

Greenville BPW Club announces ‘What a Girl Wants’ evening!

No comments:
Frederic Duclos sterling silver necklace and matching earrings donated by Wieland Jewelers - one of the super raffle items to be launched at the Greenville BPW ‘What a Girl Wants’ evening Annual Guest Night. 
Greenville, OH. “What a Girl Wants” is again the theme for this year’s Greenville Business & Professional Women’s (BPW) Club Annual Guest Night which will be held on Thursday, October 11th. All proceeds from this event go towards scholarships for Darke County women. This year’s event will start in downtown Greenville from 4-6 PM with special savings and surprises at the following featured stores: Merle Norman, Sadie Grace, Sweet Annie’s Cabin, Youniques Boutique, Wielands Jewelers, The Natural Path, Expressions of Tyme and Shelly’s Antique and Décor. Another new location is 4 One Apparel located at 13 W. George in Arcanum. The evening will continue at the VFW at 6:00 pm with more vendors, silent auction, door prizes, fashion show, cash bar, and appetizers provided by J’s Country Store. Some vendors participating at the event will include: Damsel in Defense, Park Lane, Longaberger, Brown Bag Soap Co., Posh, Mary Kay, Pampered Chef, Scentsy, Amanda Baker Chair Massage, Tastefully Simple, Thirty One, Pink Zebra, Norwex, Plexus, Vintage Mason and more.

The BPW club will also launch their ‘super raffle’ at the guest night event. A weekend stay at a secluded cabin located in Brown County, Indiana; a Frederic Duclos sterling silver necklace and matching earrings donated by Wieland Jewelers, and a Hand Blender from KitchenAid® are three of the prizes which will be offered. The drawing will be held at the Club’s December 13th meeting.

Come and join us for a fun evening and find out more about our Club. You must have a ticket to attend this event. Invite your friends and get your tickets in downtown Greenville at Merle Norman, Sweet Annie’s Cabin, Natural Path and in Arcanum at 4 One Apparel. Show your ticket to the featured downtown businesses to get your special savings. The cost is only $15.00. Tickets must be purchased or reservations made by noon on Monday, October 8th. To RSVP contact Vicki Cost at vcost@coxinsurance.com or Deb Shiverdecker at 937-417-7231.

The Greenville BPW Club’s mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education, and information.

Dementia Program at Coldwater Library

No comments:

Author to Read Children's Book at Bread of Life

No comments:
Children ages 2-8 will love this sweet story of Davey Panda which will be told by the author herself. Myra G. Love is sharing her first published book with us and sharing her desire for children to learn that with Christ they can Do All Things!

Saturday, September 29, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm at Bread of Life Bookstore, 533 S. Broadway, Greenville, Ohio.

Library Film Series Resumes

No comments:
Movies have a way of capturing our imaginations and lodging in our memories like no other popular art form can. From the ornate movie palaces of the roaring twenties to the streaming video services of today, from the drive-ins of the 1960s to modern multiplexes, movies have been entertaining us, exciting us, scaring us, making us laugh, and stirring our hearts and minds for over a hundred years.

Beginning in October, Greenville Public Library's Third Floor Film Series will again bring the best classic and contemporary films to a local audience.

The Third Floor Film Series was a popular program at the library for several years before going on hiatus at the beginning of 2018. The series was founded in early 2015 by local writer David Nilsen, who ran the program until January 2017, when he handed it over to Ryan Carpe. It will relaunch again in October, with Nilsen again curating and leading the series.

Free monthly screenings will feature a thought-provoking discussion led by Nilsen following each film, and attendees will be able to enjoy free candy, fresh popcorn, and soft drinks during each event. The series kicks off Tuesday, October 2, at 6:30 p.m., with a showing of The Haunting, a 1963 classic of psychological horror based on Shirley Jackson's iconic novel The Haunting of Hill House. Alfred Hitchcock's suspense classic Shadow of a Doubt will be shown on November 6, with the 1934 comedic mystery film The Thin Man finishing out the year on December 4. 2019 dates will be announced in December.

If you love classic cinema, make plans to attend these excellent films at Greenville Public Library.

National Manufacturing Day

No comments:
Darke County will recognize National Manufacturing Day on Friday, October 5 when all Darke County Sophomores will tour one of our local manufacturing facilities. Participating companies are FRAM, Fort Recovery Industries, GTI, JAFE Decorating, Midmark, Ramco Electric Motors, and Whirlpool. Manufacturing Day is an annual event created to demonstrate modern manufacturing and foster interest in manufacturing careers. Companies will address the skilled labor shortage they face, the career opportunities available, and connect with members of their future workforce. This is the fifth year that Darke County sophomores have been invited to tour local manufacturers on the first Friday of October. This event, coordinated by Darke County Economic Development, is part of a comprehensive effort to encourage and grow a skilled workforce to meet the current and future workforce demands of the region.

Economic stability and growth in Darke County and higher living standards are tied to the success of the region’s manufacturing base. For example, for every $1.00 spent in manufacturing, another $1.89 is added to the economy, and for every manufacturing worker hired there are another 4 workers hired elsewhere. No other sector does more to generate broad-scale economic growth.

In addition to seeing modern manufacturing environments with state-of-the-art equipment and robotics, students will also learn:

  • About the wide range of careers available through manufacturing which require different levels of technical and formal education.
  • The average annual compensation including benefits for manufacturing in Ohio is $72,534.
  • Most manufacturers in the area will pay for college or technical training for their workforce if it corresponds to a position within the company.
  • There are more options after high school other than college or straight to work. Opportunities exist to work and make money while furthering their education, to help avoid the debt often associated with college education.
  • Dependability, creativity, ability to listen and take directions, getting along with others, and problem solving are skills needed by employers everywhere.

Wednesday, September 26, 2018

Greenville City Schools' District Report Card

No comments:
Submitted by Jim Hooper, Director of Curriculum

The Ohio Department of Education released its school district report cards this past week. Ohio issues annual report cards for every public district and school, based on student academic performance and growth as measured by the state tests each spring. The district report card is the way the Department of Education provides families, educators and the community with the information they need to understand how the students in their schools are performing.

This is the first year that the Ohio Department of Education issued an overall grade (A-F) for each school district. This overall grade is based upon 6 different categories – Achievement, Progress, Gap Closing, Graduation Rate, K-3 Literacy, and Prepared for Success.

Greenville City Schools earned an overall grade of a D. Despite much hard work by students and teachers, Greenville City Schools fared much as they have in the recent past, meeting the state standard on only two state assessments – Biology and Civics.

Although Greenville received an overall D for the district grade, the district is seeing improvement in several of the graded categories. The gap closing measure for our subgroups is the district's most improved component. Gap closing is a measure which compares how students in certain subgroups are achieving related to their peers. These subgroups include two areas that we have been focusing on – student with disabilities and economically disadvantaged students. The District improved from 30.8% last year to 69.9% this year.

In Achievement, the district has trended upward over the past three years in all English Language Arts tested areas, grades 3 - 10. We're also pleased to report that 13 students received a perfect score on their math state test this past year.

Greenville Elementary and Middle Schools both met the Gifted Performance Index, meaning that 96% of Gifted students scored Accelerated or Advanced on the state tests.

At Greenville High School, the graduation rate for both 4 and 5 year graduates continues to be over 90% (the state average is 83%), and the number of students who took College Credit Plus courses increased from 79 students (17.9% of students) to 131 students (30% of students).

While the information supplied by the Department of Education is important to make improvements in Greenville City Schools, it is equally important to remember that no single piece of the report card tells the whole story about what positive things are happening in Greenville City Schools. Greenville students have received national recognition for its Career Tech programs; our bands, choirs, and orchestras provide an opportunity for students rarely found in other schools; the high school NJROTC is recognized nationally; and the annual Waves of Pride exhibition highlights the outstanding arts education our students are receiving.

Greenville City Schools is grateful for having a community and parents who value education. Valuing education means making school attendance a priority. Attendance is one of the single most important factors in students being successful. Working together, teachers, administrators and parents can ensure that our children have the best education experience possible.

As a District we continue to make strides in providing a world-class education for our students, we are also deeply committed to ensuring the education of our students is reflective of our local values and traditions; values that have made our community a great place to live and learn. Although we set goals and strive to improve, while celebrating successes, it is important to recognize that what we offer for the success of our students is much more than a test score that is measured and released annually by the Ohio Department of Education.

FALL MURDER MYSTERY TICKET ANNOUNCEMENT

No comments:
Ticket sales for this years Fall Murder Mystery are on sale now! To reserve your tickets, email the following information to darkecountycivictheater@gmail.com

1)Party Name(s)
2)Party Size(s)
3)Contact Phone Number
4)Date: 1st Choice for Tickets
5)Date: 2nd Choice for Tickets

Show dates are October 26th & October 27th and November 3rd, 9th & 10th

November 3rd and November 10th are SOLD OUT!

Ticket reservations will be taken in the order that they are received via email. Our goal will always remain to accommodate your whole party being seated together and to try and book your tickets on the date that works best for you. You will receive a follow up email after your tickets have been booked that will state the date that your tickets have been booked and requesting payment information. If you would like to pay by credit/debit card, we will need to know the best time to contact you to take payment. Please note that paying by credit/debit card will result in a $1 fee per ticket. If payment is made by check, checks must be mailed to PO 255, Greenville OH 45331. Please note that payment must be received via mail by check or via phone by credit/debit card no later than one week after your reservation or your tickets will go back on sale to the public.

Ticket costs are $25 per person and this includes dinner, desert, non-alcoholic beverages and the Murder Mystery. There will be a cash bar available as well. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show will begin at 6:30 p.m. Please arrive no later than 6 p.m. to ensure you have plenty of time to mingle with the actors. For questions or concerns, please email Chris Chapa at darkecountycivictheater@gmail.com.

What happened to all the fairytale characters after their stories ended and their moment in the spotlight was gone? Join us as we attend the Fairytale Fall Formal at Magical Manor, hosted by Arian and Eric Princely. Tonight, is the night that all the fairytale characters gather for a reunion and to catch up on one another’s lives. Here you will find the belles of the ball and realize that they might not be as charming as they seemed – scandalous Cindy Ella, drunken Bella Beast and snooty Arian Princely. You will also be reunited with sibling, Hanson and Gretta who are still trying to be in the spotlight after all these years (it’s rumored they will be on Frolicking with the Fairytales.) Not all is as you remember with these characters as their lives have dramatically changed, some for the worst. What will the fairytale characters think when newly married villains Furella Devil and Zafar show up uninvited? This night will give you a glimpse into how these characters have adapted to the modern world and what has changed since happily ever after.

New Animal Ambassadors at Darke County Parks

No comments:
On July 25, Darke County Parks expanded its raptor education program with the addition of two juvenile Red-tailed Hawks. Hatched in early May, these hawks were delivered to a rehabilitation facility when the tree they were nesting in was cut down. While the birds did not have physical injuries, they became accustomed to human interaction and therefore could not be released back to the wild. This male and female duo have settled into the recently constructed raptor mew at Shawnee Prairie Preserve and are being trained daily so that they can be presented at programs for the community.

What’s next? We need to get the hawks named! The park district has a poll on Facebook to choose one of five names. They are as follows: Sky & Spirit, Bindi & Bobbie, Annie & Oakley, Apollo & Athena, and Linus & Lucy. These names were selected from staff, volunteer, and public suggestions. During our Prairie Days festival Sept. 29th and 30th we will be taking additional votes to make our final decision. Stop by the new raptor mew to cast your vote and get a peek at these beautiful new additions to the Darke County Parks family.

Greenville BPW Kicks off 2018-2019 Business Year

No comments:
Pictured left to right:  Greenville BPW Club guest speaker Susan Manchester, members Gail Snyder, Betty Kosier, Peggy Foutz, Kasey Christian and guest speaker Shadia Jallaq.
September 19, 2018- Greenville, OH. Shadia Jallaq and Susan Manchester were the guest speakers at The Greenville Business & Professional Women’s (BPW) Club September 13, 2018 meeting. The club kicked off the new 2018-2019 business year by holding their first meeting at the Brethren Retirement Center.

The Legislation Committee consisting of Chair Gail Snyder and members Betty Kosier, Diane Delaplane, Peggy Foutz, Kasey Christian and Jennifer Fleagle hosted the meeting. Gail Snyder introduced Shadia Jallaq who manages programs for Ohio Women Empowered to Represent. The POWER initiative at the John Glenn College of Public Affairs includes NEW Leadership Ohio and Ready to Run Campaign Training for Women. Her talk was on ‘Where Do You Find Beauty?”. She urges everyone to have an opinion, to express your thoughts and to be educated on the subject that you are discussing. Jallaq said we have the freedom to speak, to create our opinion and persuade others with our opinion. To be a success we should have the ability to hear other opinions. Your own opinion is unique and valued. She encourages civil conversation. Set the tone of acceptance and civility. Snyder then introduced Susan Manchester, Republic candidate for the State Representative 84th House District. Her goal is to get government out of the way so ‘you’ can do your job the best. ‘Your’ voice is her priority. Her most important issues surround Pro-Life, the Second Amendment and low taxes. A discussion was held on work force development, the opioid crisis and marketing the State of Ohio as a place to live, work and play.

The Club is working on their annual guest night fun event ‘What a Girl Wants’ to be held on October 13th. The evening starts with a shopping experience from 4-6 PM at the featured stores of Merle Norman, Sadie Grace, Sweet Annie’s Cabin, The Natural Path, Expressions of Tyme, Shelly’s Antiques and Décor, Wielands Jewelers and Youniques Boutique in downtown Greenville! Something new for the year is shopping at the 4 One Apparel store in downtown Arcanum. The evening will continue at the VFW at 219 N. Ohio St., Greenville. The night will include vendors, a fashion show, silent auction and the kick-off of their Super Raffle. Tickets can be purchased at Greenville downtown merchants: Merle Norman, Sweet Annie’s Cabin, and The Natural Path and also at 4One Apparel (Arcanum) for a cost of $15.00. Follow’ Greenville BPW Club’ on Facebook for more information!

The Greenville BPW Club’s mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education, and information. The Club holds fund raisers throughout the year to raise money to grant scholarships to Darke County senior high school girls and young women furthering their career. The Club meets the second Thursday of every month for a dinner meeting. Those interested in learning more about the club can contact Membership Chair Sonya Crist at 937/423-3657 or sonyacrist@gmail.com.

High School Students Needed for Local “Big Buddies” Program

No comments:
A representative from Shelby County Soil and Water Conservation District presented to a Big Brothers Big Sisters "Big Buddies" after-school mentoring group at Sidney City School's Emerson Elementary during the 2017-2018 school year.  The Big Buddies program is currently seeking volunteers for the 2018-2019 school year.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County is excited to announce their 19th year of programming for their after-school “Big Buddies” mentorship program. Fun and energetic high school students are needed for the 2018-2019 school year to mentor local elementary students. This is a wonderful opportunity for high school students to give back to their community, receive service hours toward graduation requirements, be eligible for scholarships, add the experience to employment applications, and make a difference in the life of a child.

Big Buddies is a nine-month commitment where high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors volunteer two times per month to mentor elementary students. During these meetings, high school students, under the supervision of Big Brothers Big Sisters staff, work with one or two children on different educational and recreational activities. This year’s curriculum is entitled “Mindfulness: Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies” and will focus on brain development, social & emotional growth, nutrition, and exercise.

High school mentoring programs have become a widespread component of many nationally affiliated Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies. Studies prove that children who spend time with a positive role model are more likely to become healthy, productive adults. Big Brothers Big Sisters has a vision for all children to achieve success in life. Their mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally-supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. By partnering with parents, guardians, volunteers, and others in the community; BBBS is held accountable for each child in their program achieving higher aspirations, greater confidence, better relationships, avoidance of risky behaviors, and educational success. The Big Buddies program has proven beneficial not only for the “Littles”, but for high school volunteers as well.

If you or someone you know would like to become a Big Buddy and make a difference in the life of a child, please contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County at 937-492-7611, 937-547-9622 or go to www.bigbrobigsis-shelbydarke.org for more information. Big Brothers Big Sisters is a non-profit, United Way member agency.

Adult Senior Job Fair Set for September 27

No comments:
Looking to re-enter the workforce? Interested in part time employment? The Darke County Economic Development office will be sponsoring an “Adult Senior Job Fair” on September 27th at Oakley Place in Greenville. The time of the event will be from 9:00 AM to 12: 00 PM.

“This will be a great opportunity for those retirees that feel they still have time in their week to put toward a job, to meet companies that have part time employment opportunities,” explained Darke County Economic Development Director Mike Bowers. “The thought of a Senior Job Fair came about a number of months ago during a conversation with Darke County Commissioner Mike Stegall. Local companies are in need of good, reliable part time employees and this job fair will give the opportunity to assist in this manner,” Bowers further added.

A few of the companies looking to participate are Wayne Healthcare, Brethren Retirement Community, Spirit Medical Transport, Integrity Ambulance Service, Rural King, Lowes, Oakley Place and Brookdale. Those interested in attending simply need to show up at Oakley Place located at 1275 Northview Drive the day of the event. There is no registration. Coffee and donuts will be provided by the staff of Oakley Place.

When asked about the job fair, County Commissioner Mike Stegall commented, “This job fair will help our seniors who are wanting something to do on a part time or full time basis. This will help our companies and present workforce by learning from the experiences and work ethic they will bring with them. Our Seniors are an important tool that we have overlooked too long to help with the employment situation here and across the country. They still have much to offer, and we can all learn from them.”

Again we ask, ‘Looking to re-enter the workforce? Interested in part time employment?’ Come join us on September 27th.

Making Flavored Vinegars

No comments:
OSU Extension, Darke County is having a Making Flavored Vinegars program on Thursday, October 18, 2018. The program is from 6:30-7:30pm. If you have a “foodie” on your list that is hard to buy for, perhaps making a fruit or herb vinegar would be just the right gift idea for that someone who has everything! These homemade herb or fruit flavored vinegars are easy to make and a wonderful change to everyday salad dressings and sauces. They can also be used in meat dishes and cooked vegetables.

Please register by October 12, 2018. To register call 937-548-5215 or email barga.8@osu.edu. The class is limited to 25 people.

Deer Hunters: Archery Season Coming Soon

No comments:
COLUMBUS, OH – Hunters will have their first opportunity to pursue white-tailed deer when archery season opens on Saturday, Sept. 29, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

Ohio’s 2018-2019 deer seasons include:
  • Archery: Sept. 29, 2018 - Feb. 3, 2019 
  • Youth gun: Nov. 17-18, 2018 
  • Gun: Nov. 26 - Dec. 2, 2018, and Dec. 15-16, 2018 
  • Muzzleloader: Jan. 5-8, 2019 
New for the 2018-2019 season, only one antlerless deer may be taken from Ohio’s public hunting areas per license year. In addition, from Dec. 3, 2018, through Feb. 3, 2019, no antlerless deer may be taken from public hunting areas in Ohio, excluding controlled hunts. A list of public hunting areas can be found at wildohio.gov.

In addition, new carcass rules apply to all carcasses brought into Ohio from a Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)-susceptible species (white-tailed deer, black-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, caribou or moose.) No person is permitted to bring high-risk carcass parts of CWD-susceptible species into Ohio from any state, Mexican state or Canadian province, regardless of the CWD status of the exporting jurisdiction. High-risk carcass parts may be transported through Ohio if they are not unloaded within the state.

If you hunt outside Ohio, you must bone out the meat before returning to the state with an elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, black-tailed deer, caribou or moose. Only the following parts may be brought into Ohio:
  • Meat with no part of the spinal column or head attached; 
  • Meat that is boned out, securely and completely wrapped either commercially or privately; 
  • Cleaned hides with no heads attached; 
  • Skull plates that have been cleaned of all meat and brain tissue; 
  • Antlers with no meat or tissue attached; 
  • Cleaned upper canine teeth; 
  • Hides and capes without any part of the head or lymph nodes attached; or 
  • Finished taxidermy mounts. 
As a reminder, portions of Holmes and Tuscarawas counties have been declared a Disease Surveillance Area (DSA) as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to monitor CWD. Specific regulations that apply to hunters who harvest a deer within the DSA can be found at wildohio.gov.

The statewide bag limit is six deer, and only one deer may be antlered regardless of location or method of take. Deer bag limits are determined by county, and hunters cannot exceed a county bag limit. Deer hunting hours are 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes past sunset for all deer seasons. Additional details and requirements for deer hunting are contained in the 2018-2019 Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations booklet, available where licenses are sold or at wildohio.gov.

The ODNR Division of Wildlife remains committed to properly managing Ohio’s deer populations through a combination of regulatory and programmatic changes. The goal of Ohio’s Deer Management Program is to provide a deer population which maximizes recreational opportunities, while minimizing conflicts with landowners and motorists.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

Andersons Book Signing at Coldwater Public Library

No comments:

Saturday, September 22, 2018

VHCC Host Power over Parkinsons Group, Theresa Nelson keynote Speaker

No comments:
The Versailles Health Care Center recently hosted their bi-monthly Power over Parkinsons disease (POP) event at the Kof C Hall in Versailles, Ohio. There were over 35 people currently being affected by this progressive disease in attendance. Our guest speaker for the event was Theresa Nelson, who presented on the benefits of reflexology for the Parkinson’s patient population. The purpose of the Power over Parkinsons group is to provide educational material to participants in an effort to empower them to live a more fulfilling life. The Versailles Health Care center is a leader in Parkinsons related treatments utilizing the LSVT BIG and LOUD protocol.

 If you are interested in learning more about this education based group (POP) or the LSVT BIG and LOUD program please call 937-526-0112 and ask for Dr. Stephen Winner.

Friday, September 21, 2018

Prairie Days at Shawnee Prairie

No comments:

On the weekend of September 29th and 30th, step through a wrinkle in time to experience life on the Ohio frontier. The Darke County Park District will once again host its annual Prairie Days festival at Shawnee Prairie Preserve at 4267 St. Rt. 502 West near Greenville. As festival attendants wander through the grounds they’ll hear the ring of the blacksmith’s hammer on the anvil, smell fresh bread baking in the outdoor oven, and see long-hunters tending their fires in the woodland encampment.

Come watch as apple butter is made over the fire, play children’s pioneer games, view local artists’ works, enjoy live music and entertainment. This year there will be performances by The Darke County Civic Theatre on Saturday at 11:00 am and 2:30 pm and Sunday at 3:30 pm. The Silver Grass Band will perform on Saturday at 1:00pm, followed by Steve Madewell’s performance at 4pm. Starting Sunday’s stage performances will be the Ramblin’ Rovers are on at 12pm. Next up on stage at 2pm, enjoy the stories of Johnny Appleseed as he passes through Prairie Days during his journeys.

Between acts, sit-a-spell with the pioneer volunteers in the log house or try your hand at candle-making, tin-smithing, and more! Take a stroll through the 18th century encampment and watch a tomahawk and knife throwing competition. Don’t forget to visit the Greenville FFA and their farm animal petting zoo for the young and young-at-heart to learn and enjoy. Be sure to take a lap around the festival with a horse and wagon ride provided by Carrs Belgians.

Calling all bakers! Prepare your best pie to enter in the Friends of the Darke County Parks’ pie-baking contest held Saturday at 9:30am! Just $2/pie to enter in any (or all!) of the following categories: Apple, Peach, Berry, or Other. Be sure to submit pies in a disposable pan and we cannot accept meringue or refrigerated pies. Winner takes home a cash prize!

There will also be a wide variety of food to choose from. Take a load off as you enjoy fresh produce from Downing’s Fruit Farm, an ice cream cone from Just Ice Cream, or visit one of the non-profit vendors serving a wide variety of foods for lunch, snacks, and more! Feeling lucky? Enter our annual basket raffle before you leave!

We hope to see you Prairie Days weekend (September 29 & 30) at Shawnee Prairie Preserve where admission and parking are FREE! Transportation from the main parking areas will once again be provided by Greenville Transit System (GTS). Parking areas will be well marked with plenty of signage. This will make getting to and from the parking area to the festival grounds quick, effective, and safe for all family members. Handicap parking will once again be available in the paved lot at the Nature Center. (Please be sure to have your Handicap Placard visible).

For more information, call the Nature Center at (937) 548-0165 or visit the website at www.darkecountyparks.org

City of Greenville Fire Department Fire Prevention Open House

No comments:
The City of Greenville Fire Department will be hosting a Fire Prevention Open House with the theme "Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware - fire can happen anywhere." on Sunday, October 7th 2018 from 1:00 P.M.-4:00 P.M. at the fire station in the City Municipal Building, located at 100 Public Square.

There will be several activities at the fire station including: Guided station tours, adult use of portable fire extinguishers, a static display of a complete set of firefighter turnout gear, fire escape educational talks, and fire apparatus displays. Rage and Rocko (firefighting Dalmatians) will also be visiting. Also there will be various fire safety handouts available.

As a reminder, the City of Greenville Fire Department has smoke and carbon monoxide detectors available for free for city residents. A 9v Battery Exchange, sponsored by the Darke County Solid Waste District will be available with a five battery limit for residents with a Darke County address.

Due to the generous donations we received, there will be free refreshments and door prizes available.

Hope to see you there!

VHCC Host Quarterly Joint Replacement Class

No comments:
The Versailles Health Care Center recently hosted their Joint replacement Class. The class is specifically designed for individuals contemplating the need for a joint replacement surgery. The class is structured to review all the steps of the joint replacement surgery, starting with pre registration at the hospital through the completion of rehab. The class was lead by Stephanie Goubeaux, VHCC physical therapist. The Versailles Health Care center is a leader in Joint Replacement rehab for inpatient and outpatient needs. If you are interested in learning more about this education based group or have questions regarding the joint replacement process please call 937-526-0112, and ask for Dr. Stephen Winner.

Emergency Medical Service Tax Levy to be Voted on in November

No comments:
Submitted by Greenville Township Emergency Services

On November 6th the Greenville Township Trustees will be asking the voters to approve 1.95 mil / 5 year additional tax levy in support of the Emergency Medical Service. In 2001 residents voted to combine and replace 2 existing levies but this current levy represents the first time since 1990 that the trustees have asked the voters to approve additional millage despite tremendous increases in call volume and expenses.

Over the past 28 years request for 9-1-1 EMS has increased along with the cost of the equipment we must utilize. Our 9-1-1 call volume has risen from 1,511 in 1990 to 3,322 in 2017, a 120% increase. The cost of an ambulance has gone from $52,000 to $163,000 in 2015. A Cardiac Monitor has increased in cost from $6,500 to over $35,000 today. As everyone knows a gallon of fuel has increased from approximately $1.15 per gallon in 1990 to $2.97 per gallon today. With a decrease in the number of volunteer EMTs and Paramedics over the years we have had to rely on paid personnel more and more to handle the demands not only of the call volume but also the ever increasing training requirements.

Over the years Greenville Township has instituted different initiatives to help control or offset cost. We compare prices of everyday items on a regular basis and we use state purchasing programs for larger equipment or use Grants to help offset cost. Greenville Township is a member of the Greater Miami Valley Emergency Medical Services Council. This council not only develops and administrates the regional protocol, it coordinates testing and allows the regional EMS organizations to obtain the medications required to operate at a very small fraction of the cost.

In 2005, we began billing the insurance providers of the people we transport to stretch the tax monies we receive even further. What this means is that if we transport a resident of Greenville / Greenville Township to the hospital, we will process a claim through their insurance company and accept the insurance payment as payment in full. Patients that do not reside in our service area will receive a bill for service. This program has gone a long way in helping Greenville Township avoid turning to the tax payers for additional revenues but the money generated by billing has stagnated as health insurance changes and deductibles increase. Unfortunately our operating cost has continued to rise and we are left with no other choice but to ask the residents to support an additional tax after 28 years.

Beyond answering over 3,300 calls for service Greenville Township’s EMS provides many other services to the community. The first Saturday of each month an open enrollment CPR class is held at the station. This provides anyone in the community an opportunity to learn CPR. We currently have 4 Car Seat Installation Technicians on staff. These technicians will properly install your child’s car seat in your vehicle and explain the proper size and use of the seat. If you qualify, the technicians can guide you through the process of obtaining a free car seat donated by a local manufacturer. Greenville Township provides Stand-by service for many organizations and events every year. Multiple Greenville City School athletic events such as football, Boys & Girls Soccer and Basketball, The Treaty City Cross Country Race, YOLO Races, various other 5Ks, The Holiday Horse Parade, The Gathering at the Garst, Downtown Car Show, to list a few.

In 2008 and 2018 Greenville Township EMS was awarded the State of Ohio EMS Star of Life. In both incidents we were nominated by a regional hospital. The first nomination was submitted by Children’s Medical Center and most recently we were nominated by Miami Valley Hospital / Care Flight. It was an honor to win the awards and to be recognized by your peers in this region but what is truly satisfying is providing quality care to the people of our community.

Greenville Township wants to assure that we are providing a good service to the residents and the best way to determine this is through Patient Satisfaction Surveys. These surveys are distributed each month to a random number of people with which we have interacted or treated in the previous month. The survey results show that over 98.3% of those surveyed rate Greenville Township EMS Excellent or Above Average. We are extremely pleased that our patients and their families are so satisfied with the service we have provided.

Times have changed. Technology, Procedures and medicine definitely have changed but compassion and quality service is timeless. Please allow us to continue to provide the top quality care that you deserve by Voting Yes for the Greenville Township Emergency Medical Service Levy on November 6th.

Empowering begins third year of After School tutoring

No comments:
GREENVILLE – On Monday, after weeks of preparation, Empowering Darke County Youth began its third year of After School tutoring, its second at Greenville Elementary and Intermediate Schools.

Preparation began almost immediately after Summer Tutoring at Edison State Community College had wrapped up. Empowering supervisors and Edison students worked with 42 students during June and July, primarily in the areas of math and reading comprehension, seeing major growth in most of them.

One student who had struggled all year in math “got it” this summer. When everyone else was ready for a break, he was ready for more math.

“Having several experienced tutors involved in preparing for this fall – plus more than 40 Edison State students ready to help – was the difference this year,” according to Program Coordinator Bob Robinson. “We’ve had two years to learn what works and what doesn’t work… and thanks to those who are supporting us, we are prepared for the increase we knew was coming.”

No more waiting list was the major goal for 2018-19.

Empowering’s initial enrollment in 2017 was 59 students. That was the most the program could effectively work with. Within a few weeks there was a waiting list of 32 students. This year the After School Program has already enrolled 79 students and has procedures in place to work with more if needed.

“Will we meet the ‘no waiting list’ goal in the long term? I don’t know,” said Robinson. “We know there are struggling students not in our program; whether or not they ask for help remains to be seen. If they do, we’ll do our best to help them.”

Robinson praised the teachers who work with the students each day. “They care about their kids and do a tremendous job. I know… I’m a sub and I see it in their students. Last year I was actually able to substitute for a little over two weeks. I was worn out!! Teachers have their charges for nine months. Many are offering to help with materials and lesson plans.

“It’s a team effort… we follow their lead and the kids get the benefit.”

On behalf of the kids, the Empowering Board owes a debt of thanks to the Darke County United Way and Greenville Eagles for major support, Greenville City Schools for the use of their facility, Edison State for the use of its Darke County Campus as its home base, Darke County’s Edison State students, and the dozens of individuals, organizations and businesses who have been supporting its programs. Without this united effort there would be no programs.

Want more information on how you can help? Drop us a line at empoweringyouth101@gmail.com or message us on Empowering Darke County Youth Facebook.

The Empowering Mission: Empowering Darke County Youth provides After School and Summer Tutoring programs to assist students in the areas of language arts and math with the goal of Strong Students for a Strong Community.

TASKS Assists Mississinawa Schools with CPR Education

No comments:
Prior to the July board meeting of Mississinawa Valley Local Schools, TASKS, Inc. board members Ted Braun, Dan Watren, and Scott Garrison were present to meet with MV board members Amy Hanes, Dale Breymier, and Superintendent Doug Dunham to look over the new CPR equipment purchased with grant money given by the TASKS organization. School nurse Jamie Wisner reached out to TASKS in early 2018 for assistance in purchasing 9 CPR mannequins (5 adult, 1 child, & 3 infant) and 2 AED trainers for classroom use, teaching students how to perform CPR. The equipment was received just prior to the end of the school year and will be used for the first time this school year. The mannequins (adult, pediatric, and infant) are equipped with electronic feedback indicators that tell the student if their compressions are being done at the proper depth and rate. The AED trainers are true to life and have all the voice commands found in a publicly available AED.

Nurse Wisner intends to use these equipment pieces to train students on CPR at both the 4th and 9th grade levels in hopes of obtaining Heart Safe School accreditation through the SADS Foundation for the school district. Heart Safe School accreditation is not a requirement, but a desire shared among the Darke county school nurses to ensure that Darke county schools are offering the safest environment possible to the youth in our community. Adhering to the required elements of this accreditation, will certify that students and staff are better equipped to act in the event of a cardiac emergency. More specifically, it will ensure a more coordinated campus-wide response, clarity of staff roles, efficient access to emergency equipment, and ultimately a safer platform for learning and sharing.

Pictured above are TASKS board members Braun, Watren, and Garrison, along with Mississinawa Valley Schools nurse Jamie Wisner and board members Amy Hanes, Dale Breymier, and Superintendent Doug Dunham.

TASKS, Inc. (Teaching About Safety Kids’ Style) is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization, as approved by the IRS in June of 2014. TASKS was created with the intent of funding safety education initiatives aimed at Darke County youth. As a 501(c)3, any contributions to TASKS, Inc. could be tax deductible and are substantiated with a written receipt from the organization. If you have any questions regarding TASKS, please feel free to contact Scott Garrison at 937-371-1249. Donations may be mailed to TASKS, Inc., 28 E. Ward St., Versailles, OH 45380.

ANNA BIER TO EXHIBIT PAUL ACKLEY – LOCAL EDITORIAL CARTOON ARTIST

No comments:
The Anna Bier Gallery will present Darke County’s historical editorial and political cartoon artist, Paul Ackley, at Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall in Greenville on Saturday, September 22nd 2018; the exhibit will be open from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. with an artist presentation at 7 p.m. Enjoy a stroll down memory lane through a collection of many of Ackley’s cartoons over the years. A featured piece, drawn in the streets of Chicago, depicts a day in the life of an elderly homeless woman and a child. The young girl utilizes a paper bag to protect her head from the Windy City, smiling and holding tight to the front of the shopping cart, like Kate Winslet on the Titanic. She does not know her suffering and embraces the joy of her life in that moment. This piece and many others reflect Ackley’s bold interpretation of local and national issues, offering us an invitation to think. This is the beauty of art.

Born into the tribe of the Sokaogan Chippewa Community of Northern Wisconsin, Ackley is a product of two artistic parents and has been drawing since he can remember. He is a graduate of the American Academy of Art and Columbia College in Chicago and had his first editorial cartoon published in 1978. Since then Ackley’s cartoons have been published by The Daily Advocate, The Early Bird and The Dayton City Paper. He has earned five Associated Press Awards and has been commissioned for countless works, one of which is hanging in the office of the Pentagon, and another in the home of Senator John Boehner.

This exhibit will run through October 6th, 2018. The Anna Bier Gallery exhibits and events are made possible through the gracious support of Second National Bank, Darke County Endowment for the Arts, Ketrow Foundation, Lydia E. Schaurer Memorial Trust Fund, Harry D. and Esther Stephens Memorial, Darke County Foundation, and through all the generous contributions of our loyal members and sponsors. We thank them. All exhibits are free to the public. The Gallery will be open every day by appointment. Please contact Tamera McNulty, Executive Director, at 937-564-5863 to visit the gallery or for any questions. You may also visit us on Facebook for more information.

Arcanum Public Library Events

No comments:
With school back in session, children’s programming has returned with StoryTime for preschoolers and Spark for older kids. Patrons can bring their preschoolers to the library on Tuesdays at 10:00 for an hour filled with stories, songs, crafts and fun. Older children can drop by the library after school on Tuesdays from 3:45 – 4:45 for snacks, crafts, games and more.

There will be an adult coloring program on Tuesday, October 9 at 4:30. Drop in for a relaxing afternoon and take home a masterpiece. The book club will also meet on Tuesday the 9th at 5:30. Newcomers are always welcome.

The library will also be hosting the 2nd Brew Review on Thursday, October 11 at 6:30. David Nilsen will be at the library again as he presents a class on beer ingredients. Registration for this event is required. Call the library or come in to sign up. This class will fill up quickly.

The library is excited to be unveiling a new website in the near future. It promises to be more user friendly and have more links to sites patrons will find helpful.

The library can be reached at 937-692-8484 for questions. Patrons can also check out the website at www.arcanupubliclibrary.org, find the library on Facebook, or on Twitter.

Thursday, September 20, 2018

XChange Clinic to Hold Informational Open House

No comments:
GREENVILLE, Ohio (Sept. 18, 2018) -- Family Health of Darke County will host an informational open house at 5735 Meeker Drive, Greenville, on Tuesday, Sept. 25 from 5:30-7 p.m. to provide information about the XChange Clinic slated to open in October.

The event will be an open house-style meeting and will include table exhibits, handouts and access to expert resources on the topics of needle exchange, behavioral health, infectious disease, and health and safety protocols. The community is encouraged to drop in any time during the open house hours. There will not be a formal program.

"This is an opportunity for the public to come and meet the partners who will make the one-to-one needle exchange a safe and effective method of addressing drug addiction in our community,” said Dr. Anna Hatic, addiction medicine specialist for Family Health. "It's understandable that some have concerns when they hear about a program like this, and we will be able to address all of those and help shed light on how this actually protects the public and provides an opportunity to help individuals in our community if they're struggling with addiction."

The XChange Clinic will be open the second and fourth Fridays of each month starting in October at Family Health, 5735 Meeker Drive and will be co-located with the Dental Clinic which is closed on Fridays. On those days, people will be able to exchange a used needle for a clean, retractable one without the fear of prosecution. The concept actually reduces harm to the drug user by not only providing them with a clean needle, but access to many resources in the community, such as counseling, treatment, recovery and education. In addition, the program protects the public by reducing unintentional needle sticks, which can result in infectious diseases such as Hepatitis and HIV.

"This is an increased opportunity to offer treatment services while addressing safety and health concerns," said Mark McDaniel, Executive Director of Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services. “Many of these individuals would not ordinarily come in contact with medical professionals but this program initiates that interaction."

City of Greenville Limb and Pick Up Ending, Fall Leaf Pick up to Start

No comments:
THE CITY OF GREENVILLE STREET DEPARTMENT’S
ANNUAL LIMB/BRUSH PICK-UP
LAST DAY WILL BE FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 28TH

ALL PILES MUST BE FREE OF TRASH AND LUMBER
LIMBS CAN BE NO LONGER THAN 12 FT. IN LENGTH
NO LARGER THAN 3 IN. DIAMETER

PLEASE CALL THE STREET DEPT.
(937) 548-2215
TO SCHEDULE A PICK-UP

FALL LEAF PICK-UP
WILL BEGIN MONDAY OCTOBER 29TH
NO ALLEY PICK-UP
ALL LEAF PILES MUST BE FREE OF TRASH AND LIMBS

COMMISSIONER’S CORNER - August 2018

No comments:
August was certainly an interesting month weather wise here in Darke County. It seemed like every day there was either a monsoon, or scorching heat to deal with. The weather and the recess of the legislature in Columbus, have certainly been the topic here in the Commissioner’s office. Now that September is here, let’s hope we have a normal fall! At this time of the year, the Commissioners are busy not only with working on the upcoming budget, but with their other duties and boards they are associated with Commissioner Stegall has had several conference calls with the CCAO energy committee on our prices for natural gas and electricity. The committee has done a good job, and we could see some valuable savings this winter. Commissioner Stegall has made several trips to Columbus to the CCAO headquarters to meet with the counties insurance board, CEBCO (County Employees Benefit Consortium). The good news is because of our employees’ health and wellness work, the counties premium for the year has dropped 0.5%! It is hard to believe insurance premiums can go down but thanks to the County employees who have bought into the program, our rates have done very well the last few years. Commissioner Rhoades stays busy with his commitments to the EMA and the Communications board. The MARCS system has had some issues, and the board is working on that and the pager issue and soon should have a solution.

Commissioner Aultman has been busy with not only the office, but the fair took a lot of his time with his own children and his work with the Farm Bureau. Matt spent a lot of time escorting and meeting with all the Candidates that appeared at the fair this year. Of course, no August is complete without the Great Darke County Fair. This year the fair had to suffer through some bad weather, as the tractor pulls had to be cancelled, but overall the fair did very well. The Commissioners met many people from out of State, and they were nice enough to explain how this is their favorite County fair! Thanks to the board for making the fair successful!

The biggest news in August was the re-opening of the Darke County Airport. Sunesis Corporation finally finished their work, and the new runway and jet turnaround look great! The striping was completed too, but in 45 days from the initial striping and painting, the FAA requires that it be done again, to make sure it stays and is seen. That may close the airport for another day, but then we are all set to go for several years. We would like to thank the FAA, ODOT Aviation, Sunesis, and Walls Brothers for a job well done. The World 100 at Eldora speedway was going to be a recipient of some fly in people to see the race (we had several jets and small aircraft fly in for the event), but it had to be postponed because of the weather. The World 100 will be held next month on October 12th and 13th.

As of now, the main concern is the County Budget. The commissioners and elected officials will work together to figure out a solution to the problem. We would like to stress that this is nothing the elected officials did to bring on the problem. They have done a great job with holding down costs. The problem is the State taking funding from the Counties. Counties find themselves in the extremely difficult position of balancing unprecedented revenue losses with higher costs. This is a result of State policy enacted over the last decade. The loss of the Medicaid managed care organization (MCO) sales tax, severe reductions in the local Government funds (LGF), and the phase out of tangible personal property tax (TTP) have eliminated $351 million per year in county revenue. Casino revenue has nowhere near covered this gap. Some counties are raising taxes; that is not the track we want to take. We will meet with the individual officials shortly and work out at solution.

As this is written, it is pouring rain outside, and we are supposed to get anywhere from 2 to 5 inches! Since it will be so wet next week, why don’t you come to a Commissioner’s meeting? We meet every Monday and Wednesday for public sessions (though we are always open through the week!) at 1:30 p.m. in the Administration building just south of the Courthouse in Greenville. Hope to see you there!

The Darke County Commissioners

Trinity Wesleyan Church to Help Local Resident, and You Can, Too

No comments:
On September 29, Trinity Wesleyan Church, alongside Wes & April Lynch, are planning a different kind of outreach. The church and a team of volunteers are working on the home of Martha Warvel, who lives in Greenville. Pastor Wes says, “Martha is a widow within our church in Greenville, OH. She lives on a farm with numerous outbuildings and is in need of assistance with upkeep on the exterior of her home. We are honored to be able to bless her through this service project.”

Volunteers will not only be helping this widow, but they will also be raising funds to offset the cost for the Lynch family’s adoption. Wes & April have felt called to adoption for many years, and now that adoption is almost a reality. For more details visit www.BothHands.org/Lynch-7734.

Both Hands’ mission is “to serve orphans, widows and adoptive families.” Both Hands helps families fundraise for their adoptions. A family gathers a team of volunteers and Both Hands coaches them to coordinate a service project fixing up a widow’s home. The family and their team send letters to raise sponsorship for their day of service. It’s very similar to raising sponsorship for a 5K race, but instead of running, the team is serving a widow. The funds raised help an orphan become adopted into a forever family. Both Hands – one hand for the widow, one hand for the orphan. Committed to fundraising support for its operating expenses through private donors, no funds raised by a family and their team are deducted for Both Hands’ administrative costs.

Since 2008, Both Hands projects have raised over $9,400,000 for adoptions and orphan care. Through 830 Both Hands projects in 42 states, 900 widows have been served, 1,000+ orphans are closer to forever families, and over 20,000 volunteers have served their communities.

Businesses and individuals may join hands with this team by donating supplies for this project. Please contact Pastor Wes at 765-546-1598 for more information.

Greenville Rotary Meets at Bish Discovery Center

No comments:

Recently the Greenville Rotary as part of their interest in holding meetings at different locations once a quarter, recently held their Tuesday gathering at the Darke County Parks new Bish Discovery Center. Roger Van Frank, Director of Darke County Parks and Rotarian welcomed the group of 30 to the center and were treated to presentations by staff and volunteers of what the future holds for the Bish Discovery Center. The Rotarians were treated to a walk after their luncheon in the Community Gardens and Pollinator Fields close to the center. Van Frank stated the Bish Discovery Center was in its infant stages and will grow towards the vision being self-sustainable. Exhibits of solar power, aquaponics, worm gardens, bicycle and canoe and kayak hubs are all just part of the future of the center. Van Frank stated, “it was an honor to host the Rotarians and we had a great day of weather to take a short walk!” Van Frank thanked his staff and volunteers for the help provided for programming and serving boxed lunches.

Should anyone have an interest in becoming a member of Greenville Rotary feel free to contact Roger Van Frank at the following number 937-548-0165.

Faith Church Participates in the Festival of Sharing

No comments:
Arcanum Faith United Methodist Church was recently a collection depot for Church World Service kits collected from the surrounding area churches of the various denominations. All school kits, hygiene kits and emergency clean-up buckets were packed into the trailer manned by Janice Michaels. The kits were then transported to Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio for the church World Service held on September 16. This is a Global Mission with participation from the National Council of Churches. Arcanum Faith United Methodist Church is a mission-minded church located at 101 E. South Street. All are welcome to attend the Sunday Service at 10:00 a.m.

VFW Post 7262 Sponsors DCCA Presentation of Alpin Hong

No comments:
Dwight Emmons, Ron Mills, Commander, and Don Dietrich, Jr. Vice Commander of Greenville VFW Post 7262 present a check to Andrea Jordan, Executive Director of the Darke County Center for the Arts.
Darke County Center for the Arts recognizes Greenville VFW Post 7262 as a Spotlight Sponsor, for their contribution to the DCCA 2018-2019 season and the upcoming performances of Alpin Hong, at Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall. According to DCCA Executive Director Andrea Jordan, “DCCA is grateful for Greenville VFW Post 7262's sponsorship, which helps enable our efforts to provide culturally enriching experiences for the citizens of our community.”

VFW Post 7262 was organized in May 26, 1946 by 208 founding members. In 1975 the Post moved to its current location that is owned by the Post. In 1987 the Veteran Memorial Park was established. Besides the Post members, the Post is fortunate to also include Men’s Auxiliary, Ladies Auxiliary and the Booster members. After 70 years, the Post is still giving back to the community and serving fellow Veterans.

Darke County Center for the Arts opens their 2018-2019 Artists Series season on Saturday, September 22 at Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall with a return performance by pianist Alpin Hong, who twice before has thrilled local audiences with his charismatic personality as well as his dynamic playing. According to DCCA Artistic Director Keith Rawlins, the program entitled “Chasing Chopin” will feature Chopin’s incomparable music while also offering a rare window into the extraordinary life experiences which drive Alpin’s gripping interpretation of those masterworks. The concert begins at 8 p.m.

When DCCA first presented Alpin Hong almost a decade ago, popular response to his performance, as well as thwarted Arts In Education plans due to winter weather conditions, motivated a return in 2014. His performances drew raves both times, and constant demands for his return continue to bombard DCCA authorities. The upcoming performance offers insight into the artist as well as appreciation for classic piano repertoire. “Throughout his life, Alpin has been inspired and sustained by the music of Chopin, even while the prize-winning artist experimented with extreme sports, video gaming, and teenage rebellion; this show offers an entertaining, unique mashup of autobiographical storytelling with dazzling piano performance that communicates directly to audiences of all ages,” Mr. Rawlins stated. Mr. Hong, a piano prodigy, experienced the catastrophic loss of his parents at age 12, and believes that music saved his life; his highly entertaining performances convey deep emotion and reflect his passion for music.

“Alpin Hong: Chasing Chopin” is also sponsored by Richard Baker. This presentation is supported by the Arts Midwest Touring Fund, a program of Arts Midwest that is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, with additional contributions from the Ohio Arts Council and the Crane Group. Additionally, the Ohio Arts Council helps fund this program with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. DCCA also receives operating support from the Harry D. and Esther Stephens Memorial as well as funding from the Ketrow Foundation, Lydia E. Schaurer Memorial Trust Fund, and the John R. and Miriam H. Knick Fund of Darke County Foundation. DCCA membership contributions also help support this show.

DCCA will also present Alpin Hong at St. Clair Memorial Hall to junior high students from all local public schools on Thursday, September 20 and Friday, September 21 as part of their Arts In Education program; these programs are free and open to the public. Tickets for the Artists Series’ “Chasing Chopin” concert cost $20 for adults and $10 for students, and can be purchased by contacting DCCA at 937-547-0908 or dcca@darkecountyarts.org; tickets are also available online at www.darkecountyarts.org.

Flu Shot Clinics at Family Health

No comments:

MVCTC Students Share Experiences with Tri-Village Sophomores

No comments:
The Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC) Student Ambassadors visited Tri-Village sophomores on Wednesday, September 12. Right to Left- . Students Ambassador’s from MVCTC included, Carter Ward (Graphic Commercial Art from Ansonia); Riley Cruse (Early Childhood Education from Tri-County North); Emma Price (Cosmetology from Tri-Village); and Caden Vance (Robotics and Automation from Valley View).
Englewood, Ohio – The Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC) Student Ambassadors visited Tri-Village sophomores on Wednesday, September 12. Students Ambassador’s from MVCTC included, Carter Ward (Graphic Commercial Art from Ansonia); Riley Cruse (Early Childhood Education from Tri-County North); Emma Price (Cosmetology from Tri-Village); and Caden Vance (Robotics and Automation from Valley View).

Ambassadors shared career technical training programs and college opportunities. MVCTC offers 40 career technical programs for high school juniors and seniors. MVCTC continues to prepare students for college and careers after high school. Over 85% of students earn college scholarships and over 93% of students are employed, in an apprenticeship, in the military, or enrolled in college six months after graduating.

All sophomores from the MVCTC 27-partner school districts have the opportunity to select two career programs to visit at MVCTC during the annual Sophomore Career Days. This year, Sophomore Career Days are scheduled November 27-29. The Annual MVCTC Sophomore Open House is scheduled for Thursday, November 29, from 4:30-7 p.m. For more information about Sophomore Career Days or visiting MVCTC, please call 937-854-8056.

For more information about MVCTC, please visit www.mvctc.com.

What started almost 50 years ago as the Montgomery County JVS has transformed into the Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC). While the name has changed, the mission remains the same. We are dedicated to providing training for in-demand jobs and college-readiness skills for high school and adult students across Darke, Miami, Montgomery, Preble, and Warren Counties.

Medicare 101 Program to be Held at Coldwater Public Library

No comments:

Chicken Dinners to Benefit Darke County United Way

No comments:
It’s the same question every night . . . what’s for dinner? How about a delicious Romer’s Chicken Dinner? The Darke County United Way is selling chicken dinners for Wednesday, October 3rd with all proceeds benefiting Darke County nonprofit agencies. The dinner includes Romer’s BBQ Chicken, Applesauce, Potato Chips, and a dinner roll. Tickets are $7.50 and are pre-sale only. Dinners may be picked up at the Greenville Romer’s located at 118 E Main Street between 4:00-6:00 pm. Simply drive thru and dinner is ready! To purchase tickets, stop by the Darke County United Way office located at 207 E Fourth Street in Greenville.

Prairie Days at Shawnee Prairie

No comments:
Step through a wrinkle in time to experience life on the Ohio frontier. On the weekend of September 29th and 30th the Darke County Park District will host its annual Prairie Days festival at Shawnee Prairie Preserve at 4267 St. Rt. 502 West near Greenville. As festival attendants wander through the grounds they’ll hear the ring of the blacksmith’s hammer on the anvil, smell fresh bread baking in the outdoor oven, and see long-hunters tending their fires in the woodland encampment.

Come watch as apple butter is made over the fire, play children’s pioneer games, view local artists’ works, enjoy live music and entertainment. This year there will be performances by The Darke County Civic Theatre on Saturday at 11:00 am and 2:30 pm and Sunday at 3:30 pm. The Silver Grass Band will perform on Saturday at 1:00pm, followed by Steve Madewell’s performance at 4pm. Starting Sunday’s stage performances will be the Ramblin’ Rovers are on at 12pm. Next up on stage at 2pm, enjoy the stories of Johnny Appleseed as he passes through Prairie Days during his journeys.

Between acts, sit-a-spell with the pioneer volunteers in the log house or try your hand at candle-making, tin-smithing, and more! Take a stroll through the 18th century encampment and watch a tomahawk and knife throwing competition. Don’t forget to visit the Greenville FFA and their farm animal petting zoo for the young and young-at-heart to learn and enjoy. Be sure to take a lap around the festival with a horse and wagon ride provided by Carrs Belgians.

Calling all bakers! Prepare your best pie to enter in the Friends of the Darke County Parks’ pie-baking contest held Saturday at 9:30am! Just $2/pie to enter in any (or all!) of the following categories: Apple, Peach, Berry, or Other. Be sure to submit pies in a disposable pan and we cannot accept meringue or refrigerated pies. Winner takes home a cash prize!

There will also be a wide variety of food to choose from. Take a load off as you enjoy fresh produce from Downing’s Fruit Farm, an ice cream cone from Just Ice Cream, or visit one of the non-profit vendors serving a wide variety of foods for lunch, snacks, and more! Feeling lucky? Enter our annual basket raffle before you leave!

The Friends of the Parks are requesting donations to help make this event shine! Can you help us out? All donations can be dropped at the Nature Center at Shawnee Prairie Preserve Monday - Saturday 9a-5pm beginning today. Donations should be delivered no later than September 22.

  • Canned Coke, Diet Coke, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Mt. Dew and 7-up
  • Bottled Water
  • Tealight candles
  • Saltine crackers
  • Clean soup cans
  • Fresh herbs: (not to be delivered until Sept. 27 or 28)
    • Thyme, Rosemary, Mint, Lavender, Lemon balm, Sage

We hope to see you Prairie Days weekend (September 29 & 30) at Shawnee Prairie Preserve where admission and parking are FREE! Transportation from the main parking areas will once again be provided by Greenville Transit System (GTS). Parking areas will be well marked with plenty of signage. This will make getting to and from the parking area to the festival grounds quick, effective, and safe for all family members. Handicap parking will once again be available in the paved lot at the Nature Center. (Please be sure to have your Handicap Placard visible).

For more information, call the Nature Center at (937) 548-0165 or visit the website at www.darkecountyparks.org.

Friday, September 14, 2018

"The Unsung Hero" by Chris Mortensen and Rhonda Schaar

No comments:
The K-8 students and staff will take a moment to remember a day of tragedy and of unification of people around those who stood as heroes on September 11, 2001. We have heard it asked many times, “Where are all the heroes today?” We often consider the acts of people that occur randomly, and in the moment, to be our indicators as to whether a person is heroic or not. In this, I would not disagree, but I believe we can look more superficially to find those heroes as well. We may find that there are more heroic acts than we would let ourselves acknowledge. To us September 11, 2001 was one event that brought this truth to light for our community and country as a whole, yet it seems that, that was a distant memory. Spotting heroes can simply be a matter of looking beyond our own preconceived notions of what a hero could be.

We, as a society, often overlook the simple acts of heroism as simply, “the job.” They are often not looked at as heroes, because they accepted the role and are often paid to perform the duty. This simple act takes one from being looked at as a hero to just performing their job. Take a couple of examples in mind and think to yourself how we portray this to those around us: A Police Officer or Sheriff Officer, is this someone who puts their life on the line every time they approach a car or enter a building or are they seen as someone who writes tickets for not stopping at the stop sign completely or stopping us, because we were driving too fast. How about this one...kids, make sure you have your seatbelt on, there is a police officer. They are portrayed as something to fear rather than someone who protects and defends.

In looking back, I would like to believe that our portrayal of these actions is one that demonstrates the risk and honor that our local law enforcement, fire fighters and rescue services face daily. I would also say that in conversation with any of these service men and women, they do not see themselves as heroes, but doing what needs to be done. In taking a closer look, we know that heroes abound, and they are individuals willing to stand against the fray. This is the reason that we take time on September 11 to recognize the members of these organizations as well as those members of the armed forces who take on the responsibility of keeping us and our children safe.

We are proud to have the opportunity to share with our students in the K-8 facility just what it means to truly be a hero and to accept the risk of keeping each of them safe every day. On Tuesday, September 11, 2018, we will take a small moment of our day to share our admiration for those heroes and to acknowledge the friends, family and loved ones lost in the name of our safety and freedom. We do this to remind us all, of the dedication and courage that it takes to stand up for what is right. It is not free, and it certainly comes at a cost.

Our guest speaker to the students for the September 11 ceremony is retired Army Veteran and retired Sheriff’s Officer, Steve Stebbins. He is a past graduate of Greenville City School of the class of 1966, was wounded twice in the Vietnam War receiving two purple hearts and the bronze star. He was a member of the Sheriff’s department for 35 years before retiring. We are excited to have him as a speaker for our students regarding September 11 and our unsung heroes who are here for us in the surrounding local community.

Perhaps, ask your son or daughter about what they learned regarding the events of September 11 and the selfless acts of our dedicated service personnel who answer the call for us all. We feel it is an honor to keep these memory’s fresh for our community, to commemorate our heroes and to acknowledge their sacrifice in the name of freedom. We salute them all for their courage and dedication to public safety.

Thanks,

Chris Mortensen, Principal @ Greenville Middle School 7/8
Rhonda Schaar, Principal @ Greenville Middle School 5/6

Featured Posts

/* Track outbound links in Google Analytics */