Archive for the ‘OUT OF COUNTY’ Category
Wednesday, June 19th, 2013
Gordon Orthodontics is honored to announce the recipients of their 2nd Annual Gordon Orthodontics Scholarship Program. Courtney Caldwell is a recent graduate of Troy High School and Sam Prakel received his high school diploma from Versailles High School. Both Courtney and Sam received $1000.00 to assist them with their college expenses.
The Gordon Orthodontics Scholarship Program offers the opportunity to support the college costs for graduating high school students who are also patients of Gordon Orthodontics. One, $1000 scholarship is awarded from each office location, on a competitive basis, to a graduating senior from the local area. Applications for the 2013-2014 year will be available at either the Troy or Greenville office or at surrounding local high school guidance counselor’s offices after the first of the year 2014.
Congratulations to both Courtney and Sam for your hard work and we wish you the best in your future endeavors!
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, GORDON, OUT OF COUNTY, SPORTS, VERSAILLES | No Comments »
Tuesday, June 18th, 2013
COLUMBUS– State Senator Bill Beagle (R–Tipp City) was proud to present Emma Moore of Tipp City with a resolution from the Ohio State Senate this morning. Emma was crowned Pure American Pageant’s Little Miss Ohio, and will be representing Ohio this July in the national competition.
Posted in GENERAL, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Monday, June 3rd, 2013
Ginghamsburg Church hosts its third annual free summer Concert on the Lawn on June 19 at 6 p.m. on the front lawn of its Tipp City Campus—6759 S. County Road 25A. Showcasing some of the best Christian recording artists in the industry, Concert on the Lawn features The Afters, Hawk Nelson, Leeland and Kyle Sherman.
Director of worship and music ministry, James Keith Posey explained, “Our Miami Valley neighbors are in for some great Christian entertainment at Concert on the Lawn. We’re excited about how this event has grown and is turning into the premier Christian concert of the season. The artists we’ve lined up bring a diverse blend and style of music – we have something for everyone to enjoy. There are no tickets to hassle with – just bring a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy a great night of free music.”
The Afters are a Christian pop rock band founded by Joshua Havens and Matt Fuqua. Havens and Fuqua first worked together in a Starbucks coffee shop in Mesquite, Texas where they played for customers before deciding to form a band.The band just released its fourth studio album, Life is Beautiful.
The album is based on the last two years of the band members’ lives and how their struggles and experiences have led to the making of the acclaimed album. The bands’ fourth studio album has already earned The Afters more praise and the continuous acclaim of fans. The album’s lead single Every Good Thing has continued to climb the charts and has made it to the Top 10 on Billboard Hot AC chart and Top 20 on Billboard National Christian audience.
Hawk Nelson is a Christian punk band hailing from Peterborough, Ontario. The band has become very popular in the Christian music scene. Hawk Nelson released its sixth studio album Made in April 2013. In many ways, Made reflects the journey Hawk Nelson has been on since Crazy Love released in 2011. Since then, the band has found a new label home with Fair Trade Services; longtime guitarist for the band, Jonathan Steingard, has transitioned into the role of frontman after Jason Dunn departed to begin his solo career; and the band of four is now a trio of him, Daniel Biro (bass) and Justin Benner (drums).
Leeland is a Christian rock band from Baytown, Texas formed in 2004, although lead singer Leeland Mooring had been writing songs beforehand. Nominated for three Grammy Awards – one for each of its previously released albums – this time around, lead singer Leeland Mooring and brother Jack Mooring are joined by 18-year-old new member (and younger sister) Shelly, along with drummer Mike Smith to bring 11 new modern songs inspired by historical fathers of the faith – men like theologian Jonathan Edwards and Salvation Army founder William Booth, whose depth of belief and passion for God started an uprising of faith wherever they went. Leeland’s fourth studio album, The Great Awakening, was released on Sept. 20, 2011 and received a nomination to the 54th Grammy Awards for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album. Leeland is considered one of the most important voices in a new generation of worship music. Known for its passion-filled live experience, the band’s fourth album The Great Awakening stirs a fresh desire for personal and worldwide worship revival.
Fort Worth-based singer-songwriter Kyle Sherman recently signed on as the flagship artist to brand new label RayLynn Records, owned and operated by Texas entrepreneurs Bob and Janice Simpson – an opportunity that presented itself during a time period when a record deal wasn’t even on his radar. An emerging singer-songwriter, Kyle Sherman best describes his sound as an eclectic and authentic mix of rootsy, southern soul. Altogether, it is worshipful music that stylistically fits within the environment of a downtown bar room as much as it does a suburban mega-church.
For 150 years, Ginghamsburg Church has worked to be a great neighbor in the Miami Valley, providing worship, community, services and a popular outlet for free entertainment. In fact, the idea for hosting the concert was born out of the need to provide quality Christian entertainment at a local venue. During its many years of ministry work in the greater Miami Valley area, Ginghamsburg has learned the importance of community partnerships – this is Ginghamsburg’s third year hosting Concert on the Lawn with approximately 3,500 in attendance in 2012.
Posey explained, “You don’t have to attend Ginghamsburg Church to come to Concert on the Lawn. We are providing a great evening to hear popular Christian artists – no strings attached and no pressure. We hope everyone brings a blanket or lawn chair and comes out to enjoy the evening rain or shine.”
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Wednesday, May 15th, 2013
By Elizabeth Horner
It took me years to appreciate the irony. When I was younger and going on long car trips with my mom, it was not uncommon for me to take out a battered-and-bruised Little House book and read it out loud to her. I would imagine that the sun streaming through the windows did not belong to this century or to that particular stretch of blacktop; instead, it was the mid to late 1800s, and the light was baking the head of Laura Ingalls (eventually Wilder) as she travelled cross country in a covered wagon with her family. I consumed months of her life in the space of a few hours. Even more remarkable was the distance we traversed during that time. When I closed the book on the last page, my mom and I had probably done the equivalent of a several days’ long journey for Laura.
These books were a testament to the spirit of American pioneering. The cause of manifest destiny had stretched the country from one ocean to the other, and people were eager to spread out into every part of it in search of freedom and prosperity. But migrating was a life-changing decision. Many people, including the Ingalls, knew that once they picked up and left a place, they would not come back again. Family connections teetered; even though one could write letters back and forth, a post office was not the first thing to be established in an undeveloped prairie. Stranded by a sea of grass, your entire world might consist of your farm and shanty, a few stores and neighbors several miles from you.
How much things can change in a little over a century! Every morning, I wake up in my flat in London where I am doing study abroad, check my email and Facebook accounts…maybe even ring up somebody from home. And when my studies here end in less than a month, it will not be more than a few hours’ disturbance before my plane lands in Ohio. I can chase the sun around the globe if I wanted to – and it makes me realize that the days of American pioneering are well and truly over.
The thought fills me with nostalgia for a life I have never known, but more than that, it makes me hopeful – because life is no longer isolated. No one is forced into a position where they have to move away from outside cultures in order to better explore one’s own. No one traveling abroad has to give up their connections with their heritage. The advantages of modern day transportation and communication have created a culture where the movements and reactions of a person on one side of the planet cause vibrations across the entire World Wide Web. If a citizen is a person who owes allegiance to and in turn contributes to a certain state, then the borders of citizenship do not begin and end at the frontier line. I might not be able to feel the 19th century sun on my face, but I can look out a window in another country when someone holds a Skype camera up to it. I can breathe in the London air and then breathe it back out again as a sign of exasperation of my family.
Laura Ingalls probably thought she was discovering a new world as her family’s horses trotted over mostly undisturbed land; she probably felt like it was some grand adventure. But, at least for me, I am just as thrilled with the discovery of the old one, with the chance to have my country, travel from my country, and keep it too.
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Thursday, May 9th, 2013
The Ohio Department of Agriculture today reminds parents and children that the deadline for the 2013 “Agriculture is Cool!” Creative Expressions contest is less than one week away. Ohio children enrolled in school or home schooled during the 2012-2013 academic year are encouraged to capture their personal interpretation of why Ohio agriculture is cool for their chance to win prizes including Ohio State Fair concert tickets. Entries must be postmarked by May 15, 2013.
Entries, which can include an original video, photograph, drawing, or painting, will be judged in the following age categories. One winner from each age group and category will be chosen:
Grades K-2: Photography, Drawing or Painting
Grades 3-5: Video, Photography, Drawing or Painting
Grades 6-8: Video, Photography, Drawing or Painting
Grades 9-12: Video, Photography, Drawing or Painting
All entries will be judged by a panel of judges that may include representatives from the Ohio Department of Agriculture, the Office of the Governor, the Ohio Expo Center, and professionals in the areas of video production, photography, drawing, painting and other visual arts. Judging will be based on the student’s visual representation of the “Ag is Cool” theme, if it accurately reflects 21st Century agriculture, creativity and use of Ohio images, and quality of work.
Award winners will be recognized by the Office of the Governor and other state officials at the Ohio State Fair on July 24, 2013.
For additional information about the contest, a complete copy of the rules and entry forms visit www.ohioagriculture.gov/agiscool or call 614-752-9817.
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Wednesday, May 8th, 2013
Curvy Girl Movement is hitting the ground running! They will be hosting their first event on May 18, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Cox Arboretum MetroPark, 6733 Springboro Pike, Dayton.
All women of all sizes are welcome to come out and have their pictures taken! Photographers are welcome, as well.
“We’re changing society ladies, this is our movement!” said one of the co-founders.
The Curvy Girl Movement is working to change society’s perception of beauty by accepting all women, all shapes and sizes, for the beautiful creatures they truly are.
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Monday, May 6th, 2013
With the window to respond to the 2012 Census of Agriculture officially closing on May 31, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is urging farmers and ranchers not to miss this opportunity to be counted and help determine the future of farming in America. USDA has already received more than 2 million completed census forms.
“Our nation needs your help to ensure that decisions about U.S. agriculture accurately represent you, your communities, and your industry,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “For every 158 people in America there is one farm. I urge you to take action today and respond to the census – your country is counting on the information to help ensure a continued supply of food, fiber and fuel for generations to come.”
The Census of Agriculture, conducted only once every five years, is the only source of consistent and comprehensive agricultural data for every state and county in the nation. It looks at farms, value of land, market value of agricultural production, farm practices, expenditures, and other factors that affect the way farmers and ranchers do business. The information is used by agribusinesses, town planners, local governments, and policy makers, as well as farmers, ranchers, growers and others to shape farm programs, boost rural services and grow the future of farming.
“Agriculture in America is an industry built on tradition, honor and pride,” said Vilsack. “We have heard this from the farmers and ranchers who completed their Census of Agriculture form. It’s not too late for those who have not yet responded to join the generations of producers who participated in the Agriculture Census since it was first conducted in 1840. Only you can continue to provide the facts straight from the farm.”
The 2012 Census will provide a complete picture of agriculture that will be used to shape the future of agriculture, rural America, and the lives of those USDA serves for years to come. The deadline to respond to the Census of Agriculture is only a few weeks away on May 31. USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) may contact producers by phone or in person to collect census information since time is running out.
Farmers and ranchers can also return their forms by mail or online by visiting a secure website, www.agcensus.usda.gov. Federal law requires a response from everyone who receives the census form and requires NASS to keep all individual information confidential.
For more information about the census, including helpful tips on completing the census form, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov or call 888-4AG-STAT (888-424-7828). The Census of Agriculture is “your voice, your future, your responsibility.”
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Thursday, May 2nd, 2013
Free Fishing Days this Saturday and Sunday offer Ohio residents the opportunity to fish in any of the state’s public waters without buying a fishing license, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
Additionally, family-friendly fishing events for young anglers will be offered on Saturday, at five state properties around Ohio.
“It is important to introduce kids to fishing at a young age, and these free educational opportunities are a great way to get kids acquainted with fishing,” said ODNR Director James Zehringer. “We want to ensure that this pastime continues as an important family tradition for our children and grandchildren.”
At the five designated youth fishing ponds on Saturday, ODNR will provide bait and instruction for the young anglers, but participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing rods and tackle. A limited number of loaner fishing rods will be available at each site.
The following family-friendly fishing ponds will be stocked throughout the summer to ensure there are always plenty of fish to catch:
Caesar Creek State Park Pond – 40 miles from Cincinnati;
Delaware State Park Pond – 30 miles from Columbus;
Maumee Bay State Park Pond – 10 miles from Toledo; and
Sycamore State Park Pond – 15 miles from Dayton.
Family-friendly fishing ponds are open to youths 15 and under. Those 16 and older must fish with a youth age 15 and under. See www2.ohiodnr.gov/youthfishing for more information.
The ODNR Division of Wildlife District Three office in Akron also offers fishing to youths age 15 and under. Go to wildohio.com for more information on the youth-only fishing area.
Ohio’s Free Fishing Days are open to all Ohio residents and extends to all of Ohio’s public waters, including Lake Erie and the Ohio River. An estimated 1.3 million people fish each year in Ohio, and the ODNR Division of Wildlife stocked 24 million fish in 2012 alone. Some different species of fish Ohioans might hook include steelhead trout, walleye, saugeye, crappie, yellow perch, bass, bluegill and catfish.
The Free Fishing Days weekend offers Ohioans of all ages the chance to experience the fun of fishing. Here are some helpful tips for taking a youngster out for Free Fishing Days.
Keep the trip simple by considering a child’s age and skill level. Choose a pond, lake or stream where children will be able to easily catch a few fish. A spin-cast reel is usually easy for kids to use. Bring a camera, and keep the trip fun and short. Be patient—plan on spending time untangling lines, baiting hooks, landing fish and taking pictures.
Anglers 16 years and older are required to have a valid fishing license to take fish, frogs or turtles from Ohio waters during the rest of the year. An Ohio resident fishing license costs only $19 per year.
Ohio residents born on or before Dec. 31, 1937, can obtain a free fishing license at any license vendor or online at wildohio.com. Residents age 66 and older who were born on or after Jan. 1, 1938, are eligible for a $10 senior fishing license. A one-day fishing license is available for $11, an amount that can later be applied toward the cost of an annual fishing license. Fishing licenses are available at participating agents and wildohio.com.
The sales of fishing licenses, along with the Sport Fish Restoration (SFR) program, continue to fund ODNR Division of Wildlife fish management operations. No state tax dollars are used for these activities. These are user-pay, user-benefit programs.
The SFR is a partnership between federal and state government, industry and anglers/boaters. When anglers purchase rods, reels, fishing tackle, fish finders and motor boat fuel, they pay an excise tax. The federal government collects these taxes, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service administers and disburses these funds to state fish and wildlife agencies. These funds are used to acquire habitat, produce and stock fish, conduct research and surveys, provide aquatic education and acquire and develop boat accesses.
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.
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Friday, April 26th, 2013
Grab a bow and arrow or bait and tackle as more than $5,000 in prize money is up for grabs in the third annual Get the Carp Outta Here Tournament, May 17-19 at Grand Lake St. Marys in west central Ohio.
This is the third year for the fun, family event. There are prizes for most carp caught in both the bow and bait categories. Prizes will also be given for the biggest carp caught, and thanks to the area Kiwanis Clubs, special prizes will also be awarded in categories for kids under 16 years old. This year, to add to the fun there will be 23 tagged carp in the lake, each worth $100. The cost to participate is $10 for adults, $5 for kids under 16.
The tournament is part of the effort to bring Grand Lake St. Marys back into ecological balance. Carp and other rough fish are overly abundant in the lake. Reducing the number of Carp is one small piece of the plan to improve water quality. The carp population increases turbidity in the water, making it difficult for native the fish population to breathe and find food. Bottom feeding carp also uproot aquatic plants, reduce aquatic habitats and re-suspend phosphorus from the lake bottom. The carp themselves also produce a great amount of phosphorus. All of which contribute to blue-green algae growth.
To have some fun, help improve the lake’s water quality and possibly catch some cash, make plans to take part in the Get the Carp Outta Here Tournament, May 17-19 on Grand Lake St. Marys. Call 800-860-4726 for more information or to have a tournament brochure sent in the mail. C’mon help Get the Carp Outta Here! Learn more at
www.SeeMore.org. Posted in OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 24th, 2013
In celebration of Historic Preservation Month, historic sites Bear’s Mill and Staley Mill Farm and Distillery are hosting a collaborative fund-raising event on May 4 and May 18.
Mills and Stills will feature informational tours of both sites, plus whiskey tastings, food and music. Additionally, the Gallery at Bear’s Mill will be exhibiting watercolors of Staley Mill Farm painted by the late Roger Haas, plus new pottery that recalls the art of the whiskey vessel. A map outlining the scenic route between the two venues is included in the ticket price. Hours for the event are from 5-9 p.m. both evenings.
At Bear’s Mill, event attendees will be invited to enjoy docent-led tours of the fully operational mill, as well as grinding demonstrations illustrating how grain has been ground on the historic French buhr stones ever since the Mill’s founding in 1849. On May 4, entertainment will be provided by Brian K and the Vixen, a duo comprised of two award-winning musicians: Brian Keith Wallen on guitar and vocals, and Alexis Klosinski on drums. Bluegrass/folk quartet Ludlow will perform on May 18. Ensemble members for Ludlow are Jeff Rutledge picking the mandolin, Jim Martinson on guitar, Peter Miklos playing dobro and guitar, and Greg Kambitch on banjo, guitar, penny whistle and harmonica. Their tight vocal harmonies have entertained Miami Valley audiences for several decades.
The Art of the Whiskey Vessel will display the work of local potters Julie Clark, Dionne Fleming, Rita Wiley and Loretta Wray who have crafted their unique interpretations of whiskey flasks, jugs, bottles, decanters, canteens, shot glasses, and whiskey cups. The watercolors by renowned Tipp City artist Roger Haas on display at Bear’s Mill are from the collection of Missy Duer, a descendant of the founders of Staley Farm, who with her husband Joe, now operates Staley Mill Farm and Indian Creek Distillery.
Staley Mill, Ohio’s oldest standing grist mill, will also be open for tours during the Mills and Stills event. Additionally, Indian Creek Distillery, a new facility utilizing the original pot stills of the original 1820 distillery known throughout the frontier for its storied rye whiskey, will offer tours and tastings throughout both evenings. These amazing examples of early American industry reflect the treasured history and heritage resonating at Staley Mill Farm.
A mix of sweet and savory appetizers will be available at both sites. Mini-sandwiches, crudites with dip, gourmet cheese and crackers, and finger savories including foccacia, spinach squares, plus fresh fruit and sweets are included in the diverse menu.
Tickets for Mills and Stills are $35, and are available at Bear’s Mill and Staley Mill Farm’s Indian Creek Distillery. Deadline for purchasing tickets for the May 4 event is April 27; tickets for May 18 will remain available until May 11.
Bear’s Mill is located at 6450 Arcanum-Bear’s Mill Road, Greenville; Staley Mill Farm and Distillery’s address is 7095 Staley Road, New Carlisle. For more information, contact Bear’s Mill at 937-548-5112 or Staley Mill Farm and Distillery at 937-846-1443.
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Tuesday, April 23rd, 2013
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announces the availability of the final environmental impact statement, final habitat conservation plan, final implementing agreement, draft programmatic agreement, and the receipt of an application for an incidental take permit under section 10 of the Endangered Species Act. The documents are available for review through May 20.
The habitat conservation plan was developed by Buckeye Wind, LLC for their proposed wind power project in Champaign County, Ohio. Buckeye Wind developed the plan because the federally endangered Indiana bat occurs in the project area. Construction, operation, maintenance, and/or decommissioning of the project may result in incidental take of Indiana bats.
The habitat conservation plan includes measures to minimize impacts and ensure long-term conservation of Indiana bats through off-site mitigation which will offset the incidental take resulting from construction and operation of the facility. Under the Endangered Species Act, take means harming, harassing or killing endangered or threatened species.
In its final environmental impact statement, the Service evaluated the possible effects of implementing Buckeye Wind’s habitat conservation plan and granting an incidental take permit to Buckeye Wind. Among the alternatives evaluated by the service are issuing a permit for 30 years with modified turbine operations, as described in the Buckeye Wind habitat conservation plan; a “no-action” alternative, under which no permit would be issued and the project would not be built; an alternative with minimal operational restrictions and the habitat conservation plan; and an alternative with maximum operational restrictions, but without a habitat conservation plan.
Buckeye Wind’s habitat conservation plan covers the company’s activities that may result in take of Indiana bats during the life of the wind project. The plan addresses conservation needs for the Indiana bat including measures to avoid and minimize the potential for take; mitigation, including protecting and enhancing existing habitat; monitoring take through post-construction mortality studies; adaptive management; and funding of research to better understand Indiana bat and wind turbine interactions.
Buckeye Wind proposes to construct and operate a maximum of 100 wind turbines and associated facilities for a period of 30 years in eastern Champaign County, Ohio. While approximately 80,051 total acres are located within the Buckeye Wind Action Area, a relatively small portion of that land, about 130 acres, will be permanently occupied by project facilities. The project would include wind turbines, access roads, and other facilities.
A draft programmatic agreement has been developed to address consultation under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and its implementing regulations, “Protection of Historic Properties.” The draft programmatic agreement among the Service, Buckeye Wind, and the Ohio State Historic Preservation Office describes the process for conducting the remaining archaeological surveys, evaluating the results of the surveys, and determining if resources can be avoided or if additional surveys or mitigation are necessary before the Section 106 process is completed.
The documents are available for review through May 20. The documents are available on the Internet at www.regulations.gov (Docket Number FWS-R3-ES-2012-0036); or at www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/permits/hcp/r3hcps.html.
Comments should be submitted by one of the following methods:
• Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, enter FWS-R3-ES-2012-0036, which is the docket number for this notice. Then, on the left side of the screen, under the document type heading, click on the notices link to locate this document and submit a comment.
• By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail or hand-delivery to: Public Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-R3-ES-2012-0036; Division of Policy and Directives Management; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, MS 2042–PDM; Arlington, VA 22203.
The Service’s decision on issuance of the permit will occur no sooner than 30 days after the publication of the Final EIS in the Federal Register and will be documented in a Record of Decision.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service.
Connect with their Facebook page at Facebook.com/usfwsmidwest, follow tweets at twitter.com/usfwsmidwest, watch the YouTube Channel at youtube.com/usfws and download photos from Flickr at flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest.
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, GENERAL, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 17th, 2013
Fort GreeneVille Chapter recently attended the OSDAR conference (Ohio State Daughters of the American Revolution) in Columbus. The chapter hosted the hospitality room one evening of the conference. Also for the first time, Taylor Nehring was a page for the Saturday morning conference session. The chapter also donated a fundraiser basket to the conference. Since the Fort GreeneVille Chapter is located in Darke County Ohio, the theme of the basket was DAR(ke) County Touring Basket and included items from our area. Members attending the conference was Regent Chris Nehring, Vice Regent Debbie Nisonger, Chaplain Karen Burkett, Secretary Mary Jane Dietrich, Helen Wright, Taylor Nehring, Mary Kay Felton, and Susie Brewer.
Posted in GREENVILLE, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 17th, 2013
Mercer County Safe Communities will be participating in the Annual blessing of the bikes on April 28th, 2013. The Blessing of the Bikes is being held in the Celina Eagles parking lot located at 1400 East Market Street Celina.
Safe Community Representatives along with the Sheriff’s Office will be on hand with traffic safety materials. Please join us and always “Ride Safe”, and “Ride Sober”.
The event starts at 11 AM and goes until 3 PM. The blessing will take place at 1:00 PM.
Posted in OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Tuesday, April 16th, 2013
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby and Darke County is making plans for the upcoming fundraising event, 2013 Rubber Duck Race in Sidney. This event will be held on Thursday, June 20th. The Duck launch will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the Geib Pavilion in Tawawa Park.
In addition to the duck race, the agency will also host the seventh annual Duck N’ Run/Walk 5k race, which is a part of the Shelby County 5K Tour and the Wayne Health Care 5k Challenge. The 5k run/walk will be held on the evening of Thursday, June 20 with race time at 8:15 p.m. through scenic Tawawa Park in Sidney. Registration will begin at 7:00 p.m., and a shot-gun start will begin the race at 8:15 p.m. Runners (walkers also welcome) will follow the course through the scenic park, with refreshments and an awards presentation waiting at the finish line. Runners can pre-register for the event for $22.00, which includes t-Shirt and Rubber Duck Adoption. $17.00 allows a runner to participate and receive a t-shirt, or $12.00 will cover the cost of the race only. Race day registration is $15.00 and does not include a t-shirt. Duck adoptions and t-shirts will also be sold separately on race day.
The public is invited to come out at 7:30 p.m. for the Rubber Duck Race to cheer on their adopted rubber duck and compete for some awesome prizes. BBBS will be providing spectators with food and refreshments at the race course site. The HITS Crew will do LIVE broadcasting at the event.
Last year nearly 3,000 rubber ducks made their way down Mosquito Creek to compete for the many fabulous prizes. This year’s grand prize will be a $1,000 Shopping Spree (some restrictions may apply!) There are also many other great prizes, including King Island tickets; two “3-day” passes to the great Country Concert at Hickory Hills; a Sports Enthusiast Pack with golfing gift certificates, Dayton Dragons tickets, and CJ’ and much more!
The Daffy Duck Derby is a fun and exciting way to help children within the Shelby and Darke County communities. By “adopting” a rubber duck for $5 or a Daffy Dozen (6 ducks) for $25 you not only have a chance to win some fantastic prizes, but you will have made a difference by providing financial support to a Big and Little and our after-school mentoring programs. Starting in May, Duck adoptions will be available at the BBBS office, Ron & Nita’s downtown Sidney, and Meyers Garage and Drive Thru in Newport. Ducks will also be sold at selected times at the Kroger Stores in Sidney and Greenville. Any “early birds” who adopt their Daffy Dozen by May 24th will receive one free duck adoption.
If you would like to register for the 5k Race, or adopt a “duck”, please call the local office at 492-7611 or 547-9622. Interested persons or companies can also have the option of obtaining a registration and/or order form on-line. Log on to www.bigbrobigsis-shelbydarke.org and download your forms today!
Big Brothers Big Sisters’ 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. If you would like more information about becoming a volunteer or are a single parent and would like your child in the program, please call 492-7611 or 547-9622. Big Brothers Big Sisters is a United Way member agency and an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Start Something…Make A Positive and Lasting Impact!
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, GENERAL, OUT OF COUNTY, SPORTS | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 10th, 2013
The annual OSU Alumni Club of Darke County Spring Gala will be held Tuesday, May 14, 6:30pm, at the Thirsty Turtle (Greenville Golf Club), located at 6545 State Route 36 East, Greenville. Our guest speaker will be Jon Waters, Director of the OSU Marching Band!
Jon received his Bachelors of Music Education degree from The Ohio State University in 2000. He was a member of the Marching Band from 1995-1999. He served as graduate assistant for the band for the 2000 and 2001 seasons. Jon received two Masters degrees in Music Education and Conducting from The Ohio State University. Waters has written band shows for the Marching Band, Spring Athletic Band, and a number of high schools throughout the state. His other duties include teaching undergraduate conducting classes in the School of Music as well as conducting various concert ensembles.
The cost to attend the Gala is $15.00. The buffet meal includes pork loin, chicken breast, roasted red potatoes, vegetable blend, side salad, and rolls. Tea, coffee, and water are included in the meal cost.
During the event, scholarships will be awarded to Darke County High School Seniors and a Silent Auction, featuring numerous OSU items, will be held.
Please plan to join us as we welcome Jon Waters to Darke County and as we welcome four Darke County Scholarship recipients to Buckeye Nation!
Reservations for the event can be made by sending your check ($15.00 per reservation) made payable to OSU Alumni Club of Darke County, P.O. Box 613, Greenville, OH 45331 or via email to Rhonda Williams at rwilliams8103@gmail.com.
Posted in GREENVILLE, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 10th, 2013
Victoria Theatre Association announces the all-new live show “MYTHBUSTERS: BEHIND THE MYTHS,” starring Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage, co-hosts of the Emmy®-nominated Discovery series “MythBusters,” will debut at The Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center for 2 performances only on Sunday, June 23 at 3 and 7 p.m., as part of the year-long celebration of the Schuster Center’s 10th Anniversary . Tickets go on sale on Monday, April 22 and are available at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, located in the Wintergarden of the Schuster Center, by phone at (937) 228-3630, (888) 228-3630 or online at www.ticketcenterstage.com.
“MYTHBUSTERS: BEHIND THE MYTHS,” presents a fantastical evening of on-stage experiments, audience participation, rocking video and behind-the-scenes stories. With this show, for the first time, fans join Jamie and Adam on stage and assist in their mind-blowing and mind-twisting approach to science.
“MYTHBUSTERS: BEHIND THE MYTHS” brings you face-to-face with the curious world of Jamie and Adam as the duo matches wits on stage with each other and members of the audience. Last winter and spring, the show performed 28-city national tour playing sold out performances all over the country.
One of the Discovery Channel’s most highly regarded and watched series, “MythBusters” is now in its ninth season. Co-hosted by Hyneman and Savage, “MythBusters” mixes scientific method with gleeful curiosity and plain old-fashioned ingenuity to create its own signature style of explosive experimentation – and the supporting or de-bunking of urban myths that we live with day to day.
Adam and Jamie have become spokespersons at large for applying science to real life – most recently as hosts of the Discovery Channel special “”iGenius: How Steve Jobs Changed the World,” and have appeared on numerous shows including “Late Show with David Letterman,” “Good Morning America,” “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson,” “The Colbert Report,” NPR’s “All Things Considered” and “Morning Edition,” “Countdown with Keith Olberman,” and many more. They were invited to participate in Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert’s Rally to Restore Fear And/Or Sanity and have received the Young Artist Award for inspiring young people in the interest of science. “MythBusters” has been invited to participate on a panel at Comic-Con, where their appearances have sold-out four years running.
Adam and Jamie serve as guest editors for Popular Mechanics and were featured on the cover of the September 2009 issue. That same year, they were inducted as honorary members into Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Society. They are Honorary Lifetime Members of the California Science Teachers Association and were named Honorary Engineers and Honorary Members of the Francis Crowe Society at the University of Maine. Both Hyneman and Savage were given honorary Doctorates at the University of Twente in the Netherlands for their efforts at popularization of science.
Adam and Jamie produced and starred in an H1N1 Public Service Announcement for the White House, and were chosen by the President to retest the Archimedes legend using 500 schoolchildren as surrogate soldiers.
They appeared as themselves in the movie Darwin Awards and have made several cameos on other TV shows, including CSI. And In 2010, Hyneman and Savage received the Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award in Cultural Humanism from the Harvard Secular Society.
Tickets start at $36 and go on sale to the general public, Monday, April 22. Tickets are available at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, located in the Wintergarden of the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, by phone (937) 228-3630, toll-free (888) 228-3630 or online at www.ticketcenterstage.com. Groups of 10 or more should call Betty Gould at (937) 228-7591 ext. 3074.
Posted in OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 3rd, 2013
ApologetiX (That Christian Parody Band) specializes in Biblical parodies of rock hits from yesterday and today, including everything from Elvis to Eminem. It’s kind of like “Weird Al” Yankovic meets Billy Graham.
ApologetiX has a simple, two-fold mission: to reach the lost and teach the rest. The band takes its name from the word “apologetics,” meaning the defense of the Christian faith (1 Peter 3:15). World-renowned author and apologetics expert Josh McDowell said this about them: “What a thrill to work with ‘that Christian parody band’ ApologetiX… The band distinguished themselves from other Christian musicians by including Bible Scripture in all of their lyrics, high-energy evangelism, and humor that was enjoyed by all ages. I can wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone.”
Parodies by ApologeliX have been heard on thousands of radio stations worldwide, including the Monumental Airshow, K-LOVE network, and the Salem-Broadcasting Network. ApologetiX has been interviewed many times on the top drive-time Christian radio audience in the country, KKLA’s afternoon-drive show in Los Angeles. They’ve also been featured on radio programs as diverse as the Howard Stem Show, Billy Graham’s “Decision Today,” and “The Dr. Demento Show.”
The ApologetiX will be Live in Concert on Saturday, April 20th at 7:00 p.m. They will be performing at the Pleasant View Missionary Church at 5231 Gettsyburg- Pitsburg Road in Greenville. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Tickets may be purchased at the Bread of Life Christian Bookstore or at Pleasant View Missionary Church. Call 447-3885 or e-mail: pleasant_view@embarqmail.com with any questions. Seating is limited.
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, GENERAL, GETTYSBURG, GREENVILLE, OUT OF COUNTY, PITSBURG | No Comments »
Monday, April 1st, 2013
The Randolph County Extension Homemakers Rummage Sale Committee is making plans for a Spring Rummage Sale with all donations going to the Purdue Cancer Research Endowment Fund. The Spring Rummage Sale will be held on Saturday, April 13 from 8 AM – 2 PM at the Randolph County Fairgrounds, 2-1/2 miles south of Winchester on US Hwy 27. This year the committee will also have bake sale items available. Bake Sale items will be marked with a price, but all other rummage sale items will be sold by donation. We will be accepting donations of rummage sale items from the public on Friday, April 12 from 1:30–5 PM. We invite the public to submit items as we are raising money for the Purdue Cancer Research Endowment Fund. Last year we raised over $1600 for this cancer research fund. All items are to be clean and we are also accepting furniture in good condition. There will be no prices on rummage sale items – all will be donation only. Receipts for donations will be available if needed. Co-Chairmen Linda Harris and Shirley Swallow would like to invite everyone to attend the Randolph County Homemakers Spring Rummage Sale at the Randolph County Fairgrounds on Saturday, April 13 as we work to raise money for this worthwhile cause.
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Monday, March 25th, 2013
Picture features,volunteer mentor, HS student, Maria Pannapara, age 15, a Lehman High School student, daughter of John and Tery Pannapara. Next to her looking at camera is Ashlyn Moton, 6 daugher of Ashely Clegg of Sidney, Elena Mendoza, 6 daughter of Katherine Mendoza and Arturo Mendoza of Sidney and High School Mentor Jessica Hilyard 17, daughter of Bob Hilyard and Dottie Allen. Jessica is a high school student at Jackson Center. The group of bigs and littles are enjoying some recreational time during the after school program at Whittier recently.
The program, which began in September of 1998, started with nine high school volunteers and since has grown to over 100 volunteer mentors from Shelby & Darke County. Through the program, sophomores, juniors and seniors are matched up with local youth and the “matches” meet twice a month throughout the school year. The High School “Buddies” work together with their “Littles” on activities that focus on educational and social enhancement, as well as fitness, healthy eating, and personal safety. All activities are planned and supervised by the Big Brothers Big Sisters staff.
The locations for the 2012-2013 Big Buddies program included sites in Sidney at Northwood, Longfellow, and Whittier elementary schools, as well as Darke County sites in Greenville at Woodland Heights elementary school, and Versailles elementary schools.
Big Brother Big Sisters of Shelby and Darke County is a United Way member service agency and an affiliate organization of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. The Big Buddies program was partially funded through several local grants such as Monarch Legacy Fund, Vectren, Harry Stephens Fund, Amie McClurkin Grant administered through the Hope Foundation, Cargill, Ruth and Emerson Booher Foundation and the DP&L Foundation.
High School mentoring programs have become widespread thoughout the BBBS National movement. Jennifer Bruns stated, “these programs are not only beneficial to the elementary students but have a very valuable impact on the high school volunteers. These high school students are learning responsibility and making a commitment to impact the life of a child.”
Also coming this summer will once again be the Daffy Duck Derby and 5k Duck n Run/Walk scheduled for Thursday, June 20, 2013. You can purchase your duck tickets by contacting the agency. Duck adoptions sell for $5.00 per duck, or 6 for $25.00. The Grand prize for this years’ event will be a $1,000 shopping spree. There are many other great prizes. There are many options for area businesses to get involved as well. You can also log onto our website at www.bigbrobigsis-shelbydarke.org for more information on the Duck Rack and the 5k Run. Credit card purchase may be done on line or over the phone. This years’ goal is $25,000
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, GENERAL, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Monday, March 25th, 2013
WJYW – Joy-FM (88.9, 94.5 and 97.7 in Richmond, IN) – will be holding its Spring Sharathon April 2-5, from 6AM – 7 PM each day. Joy-FM airs contemporary Christian music 24 hours a day from it’s Union City studios. The non-profit, non-commercial station will be raising their budget to operate over the next 6 months.
“Our goal of $80,000 is a relatively small amount to operate a 24 hour station for 6 months” noted station manager, Dan Franks. He added “since we’re a non-profit (501c3) ministry, all of the donations we receive are tax deductible.”
Joy-FM has been on the air for over 13 years now, and is owned by the Positive Radio Group based in Blacksburg, Virginia. The station’s coverage area ranges from Richmond, Indiana to Celina, Ohio.
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, GENERAL, OUT OF COUNTY, UNION CITY | No Comments »
Wednesday, March 20th, 2013
Over the Wall, an independent drama/thriller set in the world of dirt track racing is now casting actors. Film locations are Darke & Mercer Counties. Click here to view/apply for a role in the film.
Posted in DARKE COUNTY, OUT OF COUNTY, ROSSBURG, SPORTS | 1 Comment »
Thursday, March 14th, 2013
Edison Community College, Emerson Climate Technologies and the Upper Valley Career Center have entered a partnership enabling UVCC students to earn 18 semester hours of college credit to apply towards a one-year Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration certificate from Edison Community College.
The HVAC/R programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, install, service, and maintain the operating condition of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. This program includes instruction in diagnostic techniques, the use of testing equipment, and the principles of mechanics, electricity, and electronics as they relate to the repair of these systems.
“By attending the Upper Valley HVACR program students will be jump-starting their career, saving themselves money, time and have a pathway to earn a bachelor’s degree if they choose to do so”, said Scott Naill HVACR Instructor. “What a win-win opportunity for the students, parents and business partners in our community”, added Tony Trapp, Assistant HVACR Instructor and Apprenticeship Coordinator.
“This agreement is a great opportunity for UVCC students to get credit for over half of a certificate while they are still in high school, and then they can come to Edison and complete their certificate in as little as one semester. It’s really a great deal for the students”, said David Barth, Associate Professor of Electronics Engineering at Edison.
Students can visit the Piqua Campus to register and to see a complete list of the courses to take. Registration begins on March 18th, 2013 for summer semester and April 15th, 2013 for fall semester. A complete list of course offerings can be found at www.edisonohio.edu. For more information about this program, contact Dave Barth, Associate Professor of Electronics, at dbarth@edisonohio.edu
Edison Community College celebrates its 40th anniversary of providing higher education and advanced training opportunities for the people of Darke, Miami and Shelby Counties. Edison is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and is recognized with the highest order attainable by the Ohio Board of Regents. With campuses in Piqua and Greenville, Edison provides a Personal Experience and Rewarding Education. Visit us online at www.edisonohio.edu.
Posted in OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
Thursday, March 14th, 2013
Premier Senior Insurance will be holding a series of FREE public Coffee Break informational sessions to familiarize local residents in Ohio and Indiana with their Medicare insurance choices. The topic will be Medicare Alphabet Soup – Understanding Your Options. Our next session will be on Thursday, March 21, 2013 at 6:00 p.m. to be held at the Greenville Public Library located at 520 Sycamore Street – 3rd Floor Greenville, OH. This session is designed to help those who are new to Medicare but all seniors who still have questions are welcome to attend. This is not a sales event but is intended for educational purposes only. For valuable information and driving directions, please see our website at, www.premierseniorinsurance.com. Interested seniors are asked to reply with intent to attend by calling 937-569-4048.
Posted in GREENVILLE, OUT OF COUNTY | No Comments »
