Loveland Magazine

Break out the Bibs for Montgomery Inn’s RibFest 2009

“All You Can Eat”

MONTGOMERY, OHIO - Montgomery Inn is offering a summer full of ribs specials during RibFest 2009 at all three of its Cincinnati locations and the newest restaurant in Dublin, Ohio.

RibFest kicks off with “All You Can Eat” World-Famous Ribs and Saratoga chips on July 3, 4 and 5.. For $19.95, rib-lovers can celebrate their independence and enjoy an unlimited amount of ribs.

Montgomery Inn’s previous “All You Can Eat” ribs offer, which took place for five days in February in honor of the Boathouse’s 20th anniversary, resulted in 19,450 pounds - nearly 10 tons - of ribs consumed at Montgomery Inn’s Greater Cincinnati locations..

RibFest is available at all Montgomery Inn locations - in Old Montgomery (just north of Cincinnati), in Fort Mitchell on Buttermilk Pike, on the Ohio River at the Boathouse restaurant, and in Dublin at its newest location in the Shoppes at River Ridge.

Montgomery Inn is open Monday through Thursday 11 AM to 10 PM, Friday and Saturday 11 AM to 11 PM(including on July 4), and Sunday 3 PM to 10 PM
The “All You Can Eat” Ribs and Saratoga chips special is valid only July 3, 4 and 5, 2009, for dine-in consumption only (no carry out orders and no doggy bags). All orders are per person (no sharing). The $5 off rib entrée coupon is valid for one entrée each (dine in or carryout) and expires Sept. 30, 2009.

Return to Work Resource Center at Scarlet Oaks

CTM's NEXT MEETING is July 14th
(No meeting 6/30 or 7/7)

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - The Career Transitioning Ministry (CTM) offers practical, personal and spiritual support for individuals who have lost their jobs or are concerned about losing their jobs. It is open to the public, free of charge and requires no pre-registration to attend. This ministry is being offered through Epiphany United Methodist Church and River Hills Christian Church.

The July 14 meeting at River Hills CC will feature Lisa Slutsky talking about the Return to Work Resource Center at Scarlet Oaks

Meetings are held each Tuesday from 7-8:30 PM. On the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, they meet  at Epiphany UMC, 6635 Loveland Miamiville Rd. The 2nd and 4th Tuesdays They meet at RHCC, 6300 Price Rd.

Face to Face with the Women of Iraq

National Radio Commentator at Grailville July 17

On Friday, July 17 at 7:30 PM, Kelly Hayes-Raitt will present a talk, illustrated by portrait photos of Iraqis she met in pre and post-invasion Iraq, and in Syria, last summer volunteering with Iraqi refugees. The talk is at the Grailville Retreat & Program Center, 932 O’Bannonville Road.

 “Her talk is quite personal, rather than political or academic, and often stimulates interesting conversations.”

Appointed to the Santa Monica Commission on the Status of Women, Hayes-Raitt joined a women’s delegation to Iraq just five weeks before the US-led invasion.  "The Iraqis touched her so deeply" that she returned a few months later and provided on-air commentaries from Baghdad, Basra and Fallouja on National Public Radio.  In 2004, she was named “Woman of the Year” for her humanitarian work.

In her upcoming book, “Violating Sanctions:  An American Woman’s Listening Tour through the Axis of Evil,” Hayes-Raitt “puts a human face on US foreign policies.”  She blogs at www.PeacePATHFoundation.org.

Hayes-Raitt is a Carson McCullers 2008 Writing Fellow.

This program is FREE, however donations are appreciated.

No reservations are required.

Information: 513-683-2340      www.grailville.org

Star Comic, PJ Walsh: July 17th at the Oasis

  Corey’s Courage hosts, Comedy with a Cause

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO – On Friday July 17, Corey’s Courage hosts, Comedy with a Cause, a special fund raising event to offset the cost of Corey Nickell’s care, to increase the awareness of Childhood Cancer, and the Rally Round the Gold Ribbon Organization.

Corey Nickell, the son of Milford Community Fire Department Captain, Jim and Debra Nickell, was diagnosed in February, 2007 at the age of 2-1/2 with Neuroblastoma cancer. Corey passed away in May, after a 2-1/2-year battle against the disease.

Cocktail hour starts at  7 PM at the Oasis Golf and Conference Center. John Cooper said, “It will be an evening of entertainment, laughter and fun - the laughter begins at 8 PM.”

Cooper said, “Headlining, will be one of the hardest working comics behind a microphone, PJ Walsh. He's known for his quick wit, and boundless energy.” The opening act will be Dan Mahoney.

Walsh has been an “opener” on Larry the Cable Guy’s “Tour of America” and “The Right to Bare Arms” tours.  Walsh has also made a name for himself opening for other famous blue collar comedians Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engvall and Ron White. Currently, he is on a  nationwide tour of comedy clubs.

Walsh can be seen in Larry the Cable Guy’s “Git-R-Done” DVD, Ron White’s “They Call Me Tater Salad” DVD and plays a role in the Lionsgate feature film “Delta Farce” starring DJ Qualls, Bill Engvall and Larry the Cable Guy. In 2007, Walsh performed with Larry at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. During his career, Walsh has also performed at the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, he took first place in the 2002 Rocky Mountain Laugh-Off, and was a finalist in the 2002 Seattle International Comedy Competition. In January 2003, he got national attention with his appearance on CBS’ “Star Search”. He has performed at Armed Forces facilities in Japan, Korea and the Balkans, as well as with the “Comics on Duty” tour throughout Iraq and Afghanistan. He was later featured on the CNN profile of the “Comics on Duty” program.

All table seats include a complimentary drink

You may want full bar waiter service at your table.

You might want to consider purchasing a private table for you and 7 of your closest friends.

Ticket and event sponsorship details can be found HERE.

Your attendance will help offset the financial cost of Corey Nickell’s care, help increase the awareness of childhood cancer, and the lack of funding towards research for childhood specific cures.

Families of the Milford Community Fire Department and Milford Community organize this event.

Neuroblastoma is a tumor of the nerve tissue that most commonly comes from the abdomen (the adenal glands which sit on the top of the kidneys). It is mainly a tumor of infancy and early childhood. The majority cases are diagnosed in children younger than 5 years old.

For more information CLICK HERE.

Michael Joseph Jackson August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009

Photos From the Loveland Save Our Library Rally

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hundreds Rally to Save Loveland Library

Ohio Budget Vote Target of Protest

LOVELAND, OHIO – Impassioned, moms and dads, grandparents, teachers, writers, book lovers, and children answered the call on Wednesday to rally at the Loveland Library. The rally cry: "Save our Library." A state budget that Governor Strickland has proposed, will cut 50% of Public Library Funding. The budget is scheduled for a vote early next week.

The crowd was urged to immediately contact leaders in Columbus to express their concerns.

Warren McClellan, a former Loveland Intermediate School principal said that upon his retirement, he set a goal for himself to read 1,000 books. He was at the rally with his grandson and said many of the books already on his list are children's books from the Loveland Library that he reads to his grandchildren.

Mary Rose Stiver is a retired Loveland elementary school teacher. She said that she remembers well - taking children from the school across the street to the Loveland Library. She described the excitement of the children when they received their first library card and carried their first library books back across the street returning to their class room. “I'm really disappointed in Governor Strickland that he would take funds from the library – something that older people, younger people need these days.” Stiver said that her tax money wasn't going to the things that she thinks it should go to. “I am very upset.”

“Do you know what it means for a six-year-old to get their first library card? They treasured that. Took care of the books. Coming here will be something they will always be proud of. And, I'm a senior citizen - I come here to read the papers, magazines. I come here to read everything.”

Laurie Smith grew up in Loveland and graduated from Loveland High School. She is an Athletic Trainer by profession, but a stay at home mom now. She was at the rally with her neighbor and all of their children. “I grew up in Loveland and obviously used the library as a  student, but now as a parent, I come to the library, sometimes on a weekly basis, and use a lot of the programs and services they provide for children. Smith said she got her first library card on the trips her class took across the street to the Loveland Library, and said that this morning she was thinking about the summer reading programs. “That was really cool for my brother and I during the summer.” She also said she remember the “story times.”

Kelly Kennedy-Hardy nows lives in Falls Church Virginia, but is back home in Loveland for a visit. Kennedy-Hardy worked at the Loveland Branch as a teen in the early '90's. She said her mother and all of her brothers and sisters have also worked at the Loveland branch.

“It was great. We got to work with a lot of kids you wouldn't normally get to know in school, and the adults were great because they were used to having all of the kids around. She said it was a good place to learn how to work and be a good employee. My mom always took us to the library, and we'd get lots of books – we read all through our growing up. Now I walk into the libraries in Washington D.C. And they are nothing like they are here. None of the libraries compare to this library at all. I come back to the library all the time, when I am here to visit.”

According to Phyllis Hegner, Community Relations Manager for the Public Library of Cincinnati & Hamilton County, if library funding is cut, as early as September, the Cincinnati area could see, up to 20 of 40 branch libraries closed, “Dramatic” reduction in Main Library hours, 250 jobs lost, computer access reduced by over 30%, fewer new materials available, elimination of services to residents of all ages, fewer children's programs, and less qualified staff.

Read a statement on how Ohio's libraries are funded and cuts already made by the Cincinnati and Hamilton County system.

Click for information on contacting the State office holders. You can call or email your objections to the Governor and six members of the Conference Committee as well as your legislators. The budget decision must be made by June 30.

Click on the video below, recorded by the Library staff, to hear personal testimonies at yesterday's rally.

The "Great Conversation" Will Cease to Exist

 A comment on the possible closure of Loveland Library

Dear Loveland Magazine Readers,

As an author and writer, I find the library absolutely essential to my work.  If it were not available as a resource, writing credible books and articles would be impossible.  If we close libraries and cut services, our ability to continue the "Great Conversation" will cease to exist, or at least exist as we know it.  It will no longer be a conversation, but a monologue.  One voice will be heard, and it will be the voice of the elite, those able to purchase resources to write.  Before long, not only will writers suffer, but our society will as well.

As a mother, I have seen how the library is the main reason that my children are literate.  Schools and parents simply cannot fund the purchase of the amount of books necessary to help a child become a fluent reader.  Children become fluent readers (and able writers) through hours of practice reading new material.  Children quickly memorize the books they own, and reading them, while enjoyable, is not the type of practice that brings fluency.  I have also seen how the library creates an environment for my children to learn the topics they are interested in, and has turned them into life long learners.

As a citizen of Hamilton County, I have seen my librarians help the unemployed research job options, create resumes and acquire skills necessary to obtain a job.  I have seen them help the elderly learn to use computers and access services, as well as how to navigate the Internet without being taken advantage of.  I have seen them help children, both with supportive families and those with no family willing to help them, research projects for school. 

The library is not a luxury, it is essential. 

A Free Public Library = Free Lifetime Learning =  Freethinking Literate Engaged Citizens! 

Deborah Amend

(Deborah Amend is a stay-at-home mom with 5 children (ages 5-12), some of whom are adopted and some of whom have physical special needs, and "all of whom are pretty nifty", she says.)

Read more HERE about the possibility of losing the Loveland Branch Library and what you can do.

Follow Loveland's News and Events on Twitter

Robin Lacy & DeZydeco in Loveland Sunday

LOVELAND, OHIO – The six-piece group, Robin Lacy & DeZydeco, that includes the accordion, saxophone and rubboard found mainly in the Zydeco and Cajun-styled bands of Southwest Louisiana will play in Roger Nisbet Park on Sunday at 6 PM.

Along with traditional Zydeco, roots rock 'n' roll, blues and classic country covers,  the band plays a number of original songs featured on their latest recordings.

Roger Nisbet Park is along the Loveland Bike Trail in Historic Downtown Loveland, along the State and National Scenic River, the Little Miami. (MAP)

Loveland's Annual 4th of July Parade & Celebration

LOVELAND, OHIO – The city's Annual 4th of July Parade and Celebration will begin at 7 PM followed by music with the Classic Rock band Euphoria at 8 PM. The parade route will be along Loveland Madeira Road starting at the Primary School and along West Loveland Avenue heading to Historic Downtown.

Fireworks will be set off at 10 PM.

This photo by David Miller was taken during last year's fireworks.

You can view photos from last year's parade by clicking on the photo.

State News

Lawmakers inundated with budget pleas.

Lawmakers inundated with budget pleas Stiff battle for state funds sends special-interest lobbying into overdrive

Nursing homes skilled at securing aid.

At a time when nearly every state-funded service is threatened by a worsening budget crisis, Ohio's influential nursing-home industry appeared to have successfully lobbied for an additional $1.2 billion in state and federal aid over the next four years.

Akron offers free Internet access.

Free public wireless Internet access made its debut in downtown Akron yesterday. The first phase of what will soon be a 10-square-mile wireless network went live at 11 a.m. So far, it covers about 1 square mile along a stretch of S. Main Street in the center of downtown.

Anti-terror funds may have been misused by Ohio police chiefs group.

The Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police amassed almost $3 million in questionable payroll spending and its executive director likely overpaid himself by at least $800,000, according to an independent accounting review of federal anti-terrorism grants administered by the Ohio Emergency Management Agency.

Assisted Suicide Suspected In Woman's Death - WBNS-10TV, Central Ohio's News Leader.

ATHENS, Ohio — Investigators are trying to determine if a national assisted-suicide group came to Ohio to help an Athens County woman end her life.

What’s On My Food?

What’s On My Food? is a searchable database designed to make the public problem of pesticide exposure visible and more understandable. Click here to see what's on YOUR food.

Smog Alert Issued for Wednesday

LOVELAND, OHIO - The Hamilton County Department of Environmental Services has issued a Smog Alert for the Loveland, Ohio area for today.

Active children and adults, and people with respiratory disease, such as asthma, should limit prolonged outdoor exertion.

Refuel after 8pm, conserve electricity, don't idle vehicle engines & avoid use of gas lawn equipment.

Loveland Branch to Hold “Save Our Libraries” Rally on Wednesday

20 of 40 Libraries May Close

LOVELAND, OHIO – Phyllis Hegner, Community Relations Manager for the Public Library of Cincinnati & Hamilton County said, “Hundreds of people are expected to turn out tomorrow,” at the Loveland Library at 649 Loveland-Madeira Road. She said the rally is in support of "saving our libraries" from the Governor's proposed budget cuts.

The rally is a call to action because of Governor Ted Strickland's proposal to cut 50 per-cent from state library funding. Hegner said, “That amounts, to a 50% slash to public library funding, which is the primary funding source for public libraries in Ohio.” She expects a budget decision will be made by the end of the month.

Joan Luebering, Loveland Branch Manager said she did not know if the Loveland Branch would be closed if the proposed budget cuts go forward. “A lot of factors will go into that decision, depending on whether or not the buildings are owned or leased, circulation numbers, and a branch's proximity to other branches. The Loveland library leases space in the Shoppers Haven center, however is close to Symmes, and Madeira libraries, both of which are in stand alone buildings. “I can tell you that I hope it is not closed.” said Luebering.

She said that Loveland is eleventh most used out of the 40 branches and added that Loveland has a high percentage of “print circulation” compared to other branches; meaning that people use the Loveland library to take out more books as compared to videos and audio tapes. She said the print circulation was second highest in the system.

Luebering said, hundreds of children from the Loveland Primary and Elementary schools use her branch during the school year. The Loveland Library is just across the street from the two schools. She said she has been in contact with Superintendent, Dr. Kevin Boys and even though school is not in session has talked to many teachers. “The teachers I have talked to are horrified at the prospect of this branch closing.” She also said that hundreds of local children are currently participating in a summer reading program which she described as a “huge success so far.”

According to Hegner, if library funding is cut, as early as September, the Cincinnati area could see, up to 20 of 40 branch libraries closed, “Dramatic” reduction in Main Library hours, 250 jobs lost, computer access reduced by over 30%, fewer new materials available, elimination of services to residents of all ages, fewer children's programs, and less qualified staff.

Luebering said that since 2000, the Cincinnati and Hamilton County library system has seen a 25 per-cent reduction in funding from the state, and have already cut over 100 jobs. Hours of operation and spending for technology, “Which our patrons expect”, have also been limited.

The budget decision is expected next week according to Luebering.

The rally will be at 11 AM on Wednesday, June 24.

Click for information on contacting the State office holders. You can call or email your objections to the Governor and six members of the Conference Committee as well as your legislators. The budget decision must be made by June 30.

State Sen. Robert Schuler dies at 66

State Sen. Robert Schuler dies at 66.

Nestle recalls Toll House cookie dough products.

In a statement, the FDA said there have been 66 reports of illness across 28 states since March. About 25 people have been hospitalized, but no one has died. Read on...

ALSO RECALLED:

Smith Dairy Announces Voluntary Recall on SMITH’S Tea with Lemon in Gallon Size Only

Smith Dairy Products Company today announced a voluntary recall on SMITH’S Tea with Lemon in gallon size, lot no. 07/07/09.  The product is being recalled immediately because it may contain milk which is an undeclared allergen.  People who have allergies to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.

THE TEA WAS SOLD IN OHIO

The specific product in question is:
SMITH’S Tea with Lemon gallon size – UPC 70424 00560

Read on...

He's Barack Obama

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Play 18 for Cole Schlesner

or... "Play for 4"

LOVELAND, OHIO - Play for 4 is a new, not-for-profit organization that will raise funds for those that suffer neurological injuries from athletic events that need assistance with medical bills and other related expenses due to the neurological injury. Their first recipient for assistance is Cole Schlesner. Cole's jersey number is #4.

Cole Schlesner is a 14 year-old. 8th grader at Loveland Middle School. He loves the game of baseball, and has played ball every season since he was five. For the past four years he's been a player for the Cincinnati STIX 14U travel baseball team.

On Sunday, May 17th Cole was pitching and was struck in the head by a line drive hit. He was air-lifted to Cincinnati Children's Hospital and immediately had surgery to relieve the increased pressure from his skull. He was then placed in a drug-induced coma until his brain healed. So far he has been transferred out of the ICU to the Rehab Unit and has been making steady progress in long his journey of healing.

“Cole is in his 2nd full week of Rehab, and the progress he's made so far has been remarkable,” said his father, Scott.

The Play for 4 Foundation is organizing a July 27, "Play for 4" Charity Golf event that will be at the Oasis Golf Club.

The charity golf event will off-set medical bills and other expenses that Cole’s family will incur while Cole journeys through rehab the next 6-8 months.

Visit WWW.PLAYFOR4.ORG, or download the registration form here: Download GolfEventFlyer_3

Support Kelly Palmer with Frequent Flyer Donation

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO – Area resident and local businesswoman, Kelly Palmer is battling pancreatic cancer. Her husband Ian would like to bring his parents back from England for a visit and family support. Since they have recently made several trips, friends of the Palmer's are seeking Delta Frequent Flyer Mile donations to ease the financial burden.

One of Kelly's and Ian's neighbors, Sharon Burton asked, “Please pass this along to anyone you may know personally, business, your company, etc.”

If you or someone you know can donate Delta Frequent Flyer Miles, contact Sonya Hytree at shytree@cinci.rr.com or 513-235-5822.

The Unending Night of Auschwitz

Hints that tiny shafts of light can pierce the seemingly unending night

by David Miller

I took the photo above in 1994 at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. To get from floor to floor, I and my family had to walk through this cattle wagon.

As World War II erupted, the Nazis deported millions of victims to ghettos, concentration and extermination camps, and gas chambers in railroad cars like these - beginning their state-sponsored program of genocide of Jews, Roma (Gypsies), gay men, Soviet prisoners of war, the disabled, and religious opponents. Nearly the whole Jewish population of Poland was forced into these cattle cars, and later died in these camps.

Elie Wiesel, in his book Night, described his experience when he was liberated from Buchenwald as a sixteen year-old. His mother and his youngest sister had already been sent to the gas chambers, and Wiesel became his father's caregiver at the concentration camp and watched him die, just weeks before the Allies liberated the camp.

The cattle car was so crowded there was no room to sit or lie down, room was made for the living by throwing the dead onto the tracks. Out of 100 Jews in Wiesel's cattle car, only twelve survived

In his book, Wiesel wrote about the cattle car:

The doors were closed. We were caught in a trap, right up to our necks. The doors were nailed up; the way back was finally cut off. The world was a cattle wagon hermetically sealed. With every groan of the wheels on the rail, we felt that an abyss was about to open beneath our bodies.

When liberated from the concentration camp, he said, “I wanted to see myself in a mirror, a corpse gazed back at me. The look in his eyes, as they stared into mine, has never left me.”

Robert AcAfee Brown writing in the preface to Night, talks about breathing life into that corpse. "Most will want to continue with Wiesel on his painful journey through the darkness, through false days, until there are hints that tiny shafts of light can pierce the seemingly unending night that Auschwitz has imposed upon the earth.”

My family and I were able to exit the cattle car, but the emotion of walking where others like Elie Wiesel had been, was burned into my subconcious by that blinding shaft of light that day.

National and local events of these past few weeks; the murders of Stephen Tyrone Johns at the Holocaust museum, Dr. George Tiller attending his church, Army Pvt. William Long at a military recruiting office in Arkansas, and the beating of Ronnie Robertson at a bar and grill in Landon, a few short miles from Loveland - make it difficult to see the hint of light.

And now, as still more families are on the painful journey through a hateful darkness... might we see that we are all on this cattle car together. And, even though we must squint to see even the tiniest shaft of light - can we show each other where it is at?

 - David Miller is Publisher of Loveland Magazine

“We Must not Allow Evil to Flourish”

by Heather Russell

On June 4, 2009 President Obama spoke in Germany from the gates of Buchenwald, the concentration camp where 56,000 people perished at the hands of the Nazis. His comments were directed to Iranian President Ahmadinejad, and other Holocaust deniers. O’Bama reminded the world that “To this day, there are those who insist that the Holocaust never happened. Such statements are ignorant, baseless and hateful.”

Seven days later an 88 year old avowed racist, anti-Semite and Holocaust denier walked through the doors of the US Holocaust museum and murdered a security guard. The police found a list of names US lawmakers in his car; police have not disclosed any additional plans that the murderer may have contemplated.

The US Holocaust Museum stands as a monument and a memorial to the 11 million people, including 6 million Jews, who died at the hands of the Nazis. Located in our nation’s capital, the museum sits adjacent to the National Mall and one mile from the White House. 400 people are paid employees there, and together with another 300 volunteers they work to honor the memory of those who perished by teaching the 2 million who have visited to date the lessons of Nazi Germany’s blood soaked history, how to fight against all genocide, and how to work for peace and human dignity for all humankind. The Museum is equipped with metal detectors and it is fronted with cement barricades. In an act of kindness, security guard Stephen T. Johns opened the door to the museum for the 88 year old visitor, who returned the favor with lethal gunfire.

Mr. Johns was 39 years old and leaves behind a wife and son and many friends. He gave his life protecting the peaceful values of the Museum, along with the many schoolchildren, workers and other visitors in the Museum that day. My aunt is a volunteer in that Museum, and I am grateful that people like Mr. Johns are willing to give service to our country to protect my family and yours. Perhaps more than any exhibit in the Museum, Mr. Johns’ murder is a bloody reminder that bigotry and hatred still exist within the US. more than sixty years after the liberation of the concentration camps.

Although the Anti-Defamation League says that hate crimes have decreased by 7% in the last 2 years, this senseless slaying is the 4th in a recent series of hate crimes in the US: a Jewish female student at Wesleyan University was murdered by a man carrying a classic anti-Semitic tract, a man who had been researching Jewish internet sites murdered a soldier and wounded another, at an Arkansas military recruiting center, and the government foiled a plot to bomb 2 synogogues in the Bronx.

Elie Wiesel, Nobel  peace laureate and Holocaust survivor once said “all that evil needs to flourish is for good people to do nothing.” We are Americans! We are not in Iran living under Ahmadinejad. We cannot quietly sit by while hate mongers, racists and Holocaust deniers live amongst us. Spewing hatred on the internet is protected speech under the First amendment, but a violent act anywhere, and especially in a building created to promote peace, can never be tolerated. One person’s act of violence must not silence  people of good will who are working for peace and human dignity.

Heather Russell is a Hamilton County Municipal Court Judge, and Loveland resident.

Black bear spotted twice at Girl Scout camp

From the Western Star:

A black bear roaming Warren County for more than a week was most recently spotted at a Girl Scout camp in Maineville and may be heading south. Read on...

Black bear spotted twice at Girl Scout camp in Mainville

Spokeswoman for ODNR  says bear would likely head through Loveland, according to Dayton Daily News

A black bear roaming Warren County for more than a week was most recently spotted at a Girl Scout camp in Maineville and may be heading south.

“Most likely, he has gotten in the river corridor and is following it back south,”  Garza-Behr said. Read on...

Both Channel 5 TV and Channel 12 TV are reporting that the bear was spotted at Camp Butterworth at 8551 Butterworth Road, just north of Loveland along the Little Miami River. (Map)

The Girl Scout's sent a memo to parents of girls attending the camp that read in part:

As a precaution, last night all staff and girls at camp were moved to secure lodges to sleep. In addition, during camp activities, the girls were kept together in large groups, were encouraged to sing when walking from one unit to another, and food and garbage guidelines were followed. The bear was seen again this morning at camp and the police and ODNR have agreed to continue to monitor camp. We will continue to assess the situation with the assistance of the Hamilton Township Police and ODNR.

You can read the full memo the Girl Scouts sent to parents of children attending the camp: Download BearSightingMemo

Paxton's 4th Annual Golf Outing

 Golf Benefit for CancerFree Kids

LOVELAND, OHIO - "It is our 4th this year - benefiting CancerFree Kids," said Paxton's Grill, manager, Ralph Dunnigan.

The 2009 Paxton's Grill Annual Golf Outing will be held Saturday, August 15 at the Hickory Woods Golf Course. Shotgun start at 1 PM. Compete in a scramble format. Dinner and Awards immediately after the event.

4-Person Scramble (Amateurs Only)

Check-in starting at 11:00 AM

Shotgun Start at 1 PM

$500 per foursome includes:
Greens Fees, Golf Cart, Gift Package, Dinner. (Money is due at registration)

Weather Policy: Due to charitable nature of event, no refunds will be issued in the event of inclement weather, nor will the event be rescheduled. The decision to cancel or shorten the outing will be that of the club professional.

To register or help with sponsorships click here.

Hickory Woods Golf Course
1240 Hickory Woods Drive (Get Directions)

Questions contact: Ralph Dunnigan at 513.583.1717 or Rick McGuire at 513.615.5777

Italian Ice Doesn't come in Muted, Earth Tones

New Eateries Coming to Loveland

LOVELAND, OHIO – Three new eateries will be opening their doors soon in the City.

Caffeine Dreams

David Ham and Donna Tyra received approval Monday night from the Planning and Zoning Commission to open Caffeine Dreams along the Loveland Bike Trail at 123 Railroad Avenue. The historic home was most recently used as a garden and flower store last summer, and before that was an ice cream shop. Ham described Caffeine Dreams as a “cafe/coffee shop that will offer short bread from a baker in Michigan, and cookies and muffins baked by Trya. He said they will also have “unusual” items baked by Tyra as well. He said that Caffeine Dreams will have limited inside seating, but, may expand outside to a courtyard with additional seating.

BBQ Cabin

Jeff Seaman received permission to open a “Fast Food Restaurant” as an addition to the front of Loveland Canoe and Kayak. The take-out only, BBQ Cabin, will offer pulled pork, hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and cheese nachos. BBQ Cabin, billed as “Real Texas BBQ, easy to eat... hard to forget” will be open on Fridays, Saturday, and Sundays from 11 AM till 6 PM.

New York Ices

Dave and Diane Dent received permission for the sign they want to install in front of the abandoned bank drive-thru at 686 Loveland Madeira Road. Their “New York Ices” will use the building to sell Italian flavored ice. Diane joked to the Commission that she was before them to fix the mistake her husband made when he ordered a sign before finding out what the Loveland Sign Code allowed. She explained that, “I would have done things differently” which drew laughter from the Commission members, City staff and those in the audience. The couple found out that the zoning code requires “muted earth tones on signage along Loveland Madeira Road, but the $600 sign that they want to use has bright red, yellow, and purple, on a bright yellow background. She pleaded, “They don't make muted earth tone Italian Ice” and said she was thankful they didn't include the rainbow colored ice on the sign - which drew more laughter. She also explained that the sign sits forty-feet from the roadway and would not be noticed without the bright colors. She offered to see if the printer could tone down the yellow background.

Diane said he Italian flavored ice will be a “cheap treat” for Loveland, “A place where you can take your kids for a treat on a hot summer night without breaking the bank.” She said that not many people in Loveland know what Italian ice is, but they may be more familiar with New York Ice. “When people visit the east coast and try it, they fall in love with it - and they miss it” She said that Italian ice is not at all similar to the shaved ice most people in the mid-west know, “It has a special texture, and made much the same way that ice cream is made. They will sell Italian Ice that is shipped in from the east coast.

The Commission gave permission to use the sign on a temporary basis.

Other Commission action

Consideration of a proposed bulk propane storage facility along Kemper Road was "postponed" because the applicant had not submitted a completed application.

Turf Field Construction Begins

Even a Small Donation Can Still Buy a Piece of Loveland School History

LOVELAND, OHIO – The $500,000 artificial turf field at the Loveland High School stadium has begun. The new field is being constructed as a gift to the school district by the Loveland Athletic Boosters, at no cost to the District.

Booster President Jeff Williams says that even though the excavation is underway, fund raising continues. The Boosters obtained a personal loan from an unnamed resident that allowed the project to proceed so the field could be used at the start of the fall football season. The Boosters also wanted to take advantage of lower construction costs available now, because of the downturn in the economy.

Williams says that there is a “burning desire” by the Boosters to get the entire project paid off within the next 18 months. He said that even with the state of the current economy and “tough times” the Boosters have, “accomplished something that will last a long, long time.”

Loveland High School Athletic Director, Jeff Zidron says that the new turf field will serve over 10,000 Loveland students over its expected lifespan. He said it was one of the “most important facility improvements in the school history.” Williams hopes that every household in Loveland where one of those 10,000 students live, will contribute to the Tiger Turf campaign.

The entire $500,000 project will be fully financed by the Boosters, with no District funds being used. The Boosters say that in fact the turf will save the District money by reducing the high cost of maintaining a grass surface, and eliminate the need throughout the entire community of building more athletic playing and practice fields. The new playing surface can be used 24/7, 12 months of the year by athletic and other community events.

You can make an on-line contribution to the Tiger Turf campaign here, or by sending a check to the Loveland Athletic Boosters at: P.O. Box 458, Loveland, Ohio 45140. Williams can be contacted at: president@lovelandathleticboosters.com.

Library News at Loveland and Symmes

Library Board Votes to Seek a Levy in the Fall

Animals Alive!

Children/Animals & Insects with naturalist Julie Stubbs from the Hamilton County Parks.

Ages 6-12
Symmes
June 16, 3 PM

Creature Drawing Basics

Teens/Art & Crafts

Learn tips & tricks for drawing your favorite monsters & creatures with local artist Matt Parmenter!

Ages 12-18
Loveland
June 17,  2 PM

Father's Day Craft
Families/Art & Crafts

Hooray for Father's Day! Make a gift for Dad!

All ages
Loveland
June 18, 2 PM

Wildlife Comes to You
Families/Animals & Insects

The wonders of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden are coming to a library near you! The Zoo’s Wildlife Comes To You program features a Zoo educator and four Zoo animal ambassadors. Take this opportunity to meet a reptile, bird, mammal and/or insect up close and learn about their cool Creature Features.

All ages
Symmes Township
June 18, 2 PM

Fossils
Children/Math & Science

See locally collected fossils up close and learn what life was like in Cincinnati 450,000,000 years ago in the Ordovician sea and why it is so special with Gwen Roth from the Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation District.

Ages 8-12
Loveland
June 19, 2:00 PM

"Starting Your Own Business" - Panel led by Larry Poole

Career Transitioning Ministry June 16th Meeting

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - The Career Transitioning Ministry (CTM) offers practical, personal and spiritual support for individuals who have lost their jobs or are concerned about losing their jobs. It is open to the public, free of charge and requires no pre-registration to attend. This ministry is being offered through Epiphany United Methodist Church and River Hills Christian Church.

The June 16 meeting at Epiphany United Methodist Church will feature Larry Pool talking about starting your own business.

Meetings are held each Tuesday from 7-8:30 PM. On the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, they meet  at Epiphany UMC, 6635 Loveland Miamiville Rd. The 2nd and 4th Tuesdays They meet at RHCC, 6300 Price Rd.

State News

Lightning may be to blame for preschool fire.

MASON — A lightning strike looks to be the cause of a fire at a Mason preschool that took firefighters nearly five hours to contain Sunday night, June 14

Police still working leads in Lebanon rape.

Lebanon police said they are still following leads on a rape that occurred on the city’s bike path nearly a month ago.

Lebanon police have also met with Hamilton Twp. police officers to talk about similarities to a rape that occurred along the bike trail in Hamilton Twp. in 2006. Mitchell said he didn’t believe the two cases were connect.

“There were some similarities, but there were just as many differences,” Mitchell said.

State foots bill for some fancy travel

Entrepreneur's stinging nettles take the pain off.

BREMEN, Ohio -- Don Scott, nursing a knee so painful he sometimes used crutches or a wheelchair, stumbled into the healing remedy of stinging nettles a decade ago. Riding his tractor on his farm in Fairfield County near Bremen, he was, ironically, mowing unwanted nettles to clear the land for cypress trees.

New treatments for brain tumors to be examined.

The free daylong conference at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center will feature information on the latest treatments and diagnostic measures, as well as information on support strategies for patients and their caregivers.

Online Chat for Public to Learn More About Child Support

HAMILTON COUNTY, OHIO - An assistant director in charge of child support enforcement at the Hamilton County Department of Job and Family Services will answer questions and listen to concerns and ideas during a live online chat Wednesday, June 17.

Rise up and speak out against such actions

by Pastor Will Mullins

Life is precious and it needs to be respected no matter our differences

We live in a country that is divided over many issues: abortion, the economy, entitlement programs and health care, just to name a few.  Our freedom allows us to openly speak our minds, and a healthy debate of important issues that we face as a people and a country, in my opinion, is good for America.

But, nowhere is such passion displayed than when the issues that divide us spill over into one’s religious beliefs.

Last week Dr. George Tiller was gunned down in the lobby of the church he attended for many years and served as an usher.  Dr. Tiller became controversial for his practice of late term abortions and was among only a handful of doctors in the country who would perform such procedures.  As a result of his belief and practice, he became the target of passionate protest from pro-life groups .  He was labeled by many as “Tiller the baby killer.”  While some on the pro-choice side of the debate would consider Dr. Tiller a saint, alleged killer Scott Roeder would not even consider him a Christian, though he espoused the same faith in Jesus Christ.   Roeder’s brother was quoted as saying that his brother Scott had suffered from mental illness.  His mental illness coupled with his passionate belief that Dr. Tiller was nothing short of a mass murderer likely caused him to act out in violence.

Just a few short days after Dr. Tiller was gunned down, eighty-eight year old white supremacist John Von Brunn allegedly shot and killed a security guard inside the entrance to the National Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C.  Von Brunn had been spewing his hate speech for years and his hatred for the Jewish people and black Americans culminated in his acts of violence in our nation’s capital.

News reports indicate that Von Brunn was an atheist, but he obviously held similar beliefs to that of Adolph Hitler when it came to the Jewish people.  His views, though not religious, were very dogmatic toward others who were not like him.  He too allowed his hatred to rise to the level of violence, minimized only by the heroism of other security guards and law enforcement.  Only time will tell if John von Brunn was acting out of pure hatred or whether he too had some mental deficiency that aided his acts of violence.

The reality is that the divisions that exist in our country and the world have given rise to countless hate groups. Most people who differ with one another will choose to enter into civil debate and respect each other’s point of view.  However, there will always be a small minority who, out of unadulterated hatred, mental instability or religious fanaticism act out in violence.  Scott Roeder’s actions are not representative of Christianity just as John Von Brunn’s actions are not representative of atheism.  They are representative of hate-filled, violent people.

When acts of violence like the ones that have taken place over the last week occur, those on both sides of the debate need to rise up and speak out against such actions.  I for one am pro-life and I believe that life begins at conception.  I do not agree at all with the practices of the late Dr. Tiller or others who perform similar procedures, but I do not condone acts of violence against them either.  It is a horrible tragedy that Dr. Tiller’s life was taken from him prematurely.  His family and friends are grieving the loss of a husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend and I grieve with them.  The death of the security guard at the National Holocaust Museum is an unspeakable act.  People everywhere need to stand up and say this is not acceptable.

Let’s continue to debate the issues, but let’s stop the violence.

Life is precious and it needs to be respected no matter our differences. 

-Will Mullins is Executive Pastor at River Hills Christian Church in Miami Township

Read More Guest Columns About the Killings

State News

DeWine planning to run again.

State, panel let Dann off with $1,000 fine

Black bear spotted in Warren County

150th Anniversary St. Columban Festival

LOVELAND, OHIO - The 150th Anniversary St. Columban Festival starts Friday, June 25 and runs through Sunday, June 28. There will be music by Blue Stone Ivory, Midnight Special, and Saffire Express. Fireworks on Saturday night. St Columbans is at 894 Oakland Road - follow the signs, follow the traffic, or follow the long line of hungry, festive natives waiting for Father Larry's Famous Funnel Cakes.

Symmesfest June 19-21

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO – The Township's annual family summer event, Symmesfest, will be held at Symmes Park, 11600 Lebanon Road, June 19-21.

Friday, June 19 - 6 to 11 PM

• Never Enuff performs on stage from 7 to 11 PM
• Fireworks at 10:00 PM

Saturday June 20 - 5 to 11 PM

• Chrome performs on stage from 7to 11 PM
• Fireworks at 10:00 PM

Sunday, June 21 - 4to 10 PM

• P&G Orchestra performs on stage from 6 to 10 PM
• Fireworks at 10 PM

The event will offer rides, games, food, live music and nightly fireworks.

Admission and parking is free..

Taste of Deerfield Premiers this Saturday June 13

Day of Contests, Food, Pets and Prize Money

DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP, OHIO - With the largest number of popular restaurants in the area, Deerfield Township invites you to a Taste of Deerfield. On Saturday, June 13.

If you love great food, free fun, animals, kids and a chance to win prize money, plan to attend. This year children’s rides are FREE. There will be an assortment of  activities such as rock climbing, free pony rides and more.

Taste of Deerfield from 2 PM to 7 PM at Cottell Park will feature:

• Little Deerfield Darlin’ – “Our version of a Little Miss Pageant” open to girls ages 8-12. “Your little beauty queen” will compete in personality, talent and party dress to “wow the judges” for a chance to win $100 (First Place), $75 (First Runner-Up) or $50 (Third Place).
• Smart Pooch Tricks – “Your pooch is special, and can probably do a trick or two”, so enter her/him to win $100 cash for his “dog-gone best trick.” Sponsored by Deerfield Petsmart and Warren County Humane Association.
• Honey Hill Farm Pony Rides and Petting Zoo - FREE Pony Rides for Children. Petting Zoo with donkeys, miniature horses, goats, sheep, rabbits and more.
• Warren County Humane Association – “We welcome the Warren County Humane Association at this year’s festival. Fall in love with one of their dogs or cats they will bring for adoption.”
• Celebrity Showdown – “Back by popular demand, our version of American Idol” will once again offer top cash prizes for the three top finalists in three age groups in rounds of competition of Broadway-style show singing.

Also returning this year: 5k Deerfield Honors Veterans Race/Walk; Kids Fun Run at 2 p.m.; Cincinnati Zoo Wildlife Comes to You Show at 3 p.m.; K.I.D.S.; Movies in the Park at dusk.

Visit this website at Events, for details on contests. To enter a contest, or reserve booth space, go to Forms. For questions contact Director of Public Relations Ms. Fran M. Klatte at franklatte@deerfieldtwp.com or 513-701-6960.

 

I wish for each of you, now and in the future, forever, a warm heart

by Dr. Molly Moorhead

(This is the address given to the 2009 Loveland High School Graduating Class by Dr. Molly Moorhead, the Principal of Loveland High School on May 30 at Xavier University's Cintas Center.)

Good morning again. It is my pleasure to honor the Class of 2009 by sharing some of their noteworthy accomplishments with you. This class has amassed over 13 million dollars in scholarship money—bravo to them!

Do you remember the fall of 2005? You and I arrived at Loveland High School — you to begin your high school careers and I to become your principal. I’m not sure any of us knew for certain what was in store for us!  I was immediately impressed with the Link Crew students who welcomed you to the school, made sure you knew your way around, helped you get both your schedules and your first high school pictures taken.

I was impressed during Homecoming Week when the entire town came out for the Homecoming Parade and the bonfire that followed it. What a bonfire that was - brief and flaming high, and consequently, the only bonfire we have seen in our four years at LHS. Throughout our four years together, you have been a delightful class, friendly, and fun, and until this past Tuesday, I would have said you were about perfect. I told countless people that I did not want you to leave.

In November, 50 of you were fortunate enough to go Washington, DC. with Mr. Volkman as your tour guide. Since this was my senior year, I asked if I could chaperon. It was a great trip! Not only were you all always prompt, Mr. Volkman said that you were the first group of young people he had ever taken on a trip who were actually early everywhere we went. You all seemed to enjoy one another and got along so well together. Seeing our nation’s capital with a patriot like Mr. Volkman was a unique and moving experience for all of us, and I appreciated your maturity and how well you represented Loveland.

This class has demonstrated an appreciation for academic excellence.  Our National Merit Scholarship Finalists for this year were Chris Stahl and Jenny Klein and our National Merit Commended Finalist was Katherine Ramos.

I would like to introduce our Top 10 Seniors beginning with #1: Valedictorian Christopher Stahl, Salutatorian Jenny Klein, Heather Winterhalter, Emily Kowalchik, David Hewitt, Andy Jarc, Katie Linz, Meghan McLaughlin, Ben Hinchman V, and Calvin Budinger.

This school year, seniors Samantha Cardwell and Meghan McLaughlin represented Loveland High School on our Loveland City Schools Board of Education. We appreciate their work with the board.

This past fall, Jamie Allison’s Biotech students were invited to display at the National Career Pathways Network Convention held downtown at the Duke Energy Convention Center. Josh Hoge, Jeff Kamperman, Jenny Klein, Dane Larson, Nick Nobiletti, Emily Rahm, and Sydney Viox discussed their Biotech projects with college professors and business people from across the country. Our Biotech students also presented at UC’s College of Applied Science Tech Expo where Jenny Klein was named the Greater Cincinnati Tech Prep Consortium BioScience Student of the Year, and Andrew Distasio, Dane Larson, Morgan Smith, and Sydney Viox all were awarded scholarships. Mr. Allison reports that the total scholarship awards based upon being in our Biotech program top $120,000 for this group of seniors.

We were thrilled to learn that senior Alexandra Dodenhoff had artwork selected as “Top 25” in the 2009 Ohio Governor’s Youth Art Exhibition. Alex received the Governor’s Award of Excellence—her work was selected from almost 12,000 pieces which were entered in 15 regions throughout the state. Colin Dyer also had artwork selected in the Top 200 in the state. Earlier in the year, Colin received a significant honor in the Visual Arts competition of the 2008 Overture Awards where he competed against talented students from Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. Bravo to Alex and to Colin!

In the field of written expression, Angelica Gutierrez was awarded a finalist in the 2008 National Hispanic Heritage High School Writing Contest.

Our Thespian drama students are wearing blue honor cords today. During their past four years at LHS, they have worked with 4 different drama directors, yet have maintained their high performance standards, with impressive productions this year of Bye, Bye, Birdie and Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat.

In our music department, Midori Kudo was selected for All-State Orchestra and both Midori and Kai Nemoto were chosen for Southwest Regional Orchestra.

I’d like to thank our seniors involved in media production at LHS. Senior newspaper editors of The Roar have been Chelsey Saatkamp and Jeff Varley who have worked with advisor Neil Schmidt.  Yearbook editor in chief of the Lohian has been Rachel Voss who worked with advisor Kelly Partridge. We have been enjoying televised news each morning under the supervision of art teacher Jim Barrett featuring on air talent Lauren Martinez, Case Henskins, Sarah Bailey and David Gillman. These seniors have kept the morning news lively, interesting, and unpredictable.

Besides academic achievement, the Class of 2009 has demonstrated an understanding of the importance of community service. During her junior year, Julia Sos organized a fashion show to raise funds for our school's Invisible Children of Uganda campaign. This service to others was returned to her with a college scholarship offer based on her commitment to community service. Jil Templeton’s psychology and sociology classes have had a partnership with at-risk or disabled students from Becker Elementary in the North College Hill School District. Our students wrote to their partners every Friday and used their peer interaction to foster and encourage literacy. Many of our students spent their TLC afternoons at Becker reading books to children to show them that education can be their bridge out of poverty. One more community service nod goes to Art Sabga who came to my office throughout the school year to pick up recycling for Mr. Dorsey’s Ecology Club.

In the field of athletics, our seniors won many games and competitions that made our fans proud. Our Academic Team, which is an FAVC sport, was 2nd in the FAVC conference and the FAVC tournament. Captain of the team was Vidhya Sabapathy and other senior members were Fiona Robertson, Katherine Foster, Alexsa Schrader, Amanda LaCombe, Patrick Conley, and Katy Ramos.

 I would also like to mention the following senior athletes who specifically received an honor that has made history for the Loveland athletic program:

• Bobby Capobianco became our boy’s basketball all time leading scorer and rebounder while leading the team to an undefeated conference championship. Bobby is a four year 1st Team All Conference recipient. He was also named to the all city, all southwest district, and played in the North-South all star game.   
• Chris Stahl has become our all time most winning tennis player with over 90 wins en route to qualifying in doubles at the state finals in Columbus.
• Brian Wozniak was honorable mention all city in two sports—football and basketball. Brian was an MVP of both the basketball and football teams.
• Alex Pohl has received 12 varsity letters in volleyball, basketball and track over her career making her one of the most decorated female athletes in our history.
• Mike Brizzi was named 1st team All City and All Southwest Ohio in soccer as well as 2nd team All State. Mike also participated in the East-West All Star game.
• Overall, this year’s senior athletes were offered over $775,000 in athletic scholarships.

In the spring, our seniors were called to the auditorium and presented with the news that they were going to have to make up one school day and also complete a 6 hour project to meet the required attendance days and hours for the state of Ohio. They could have balled up the pages of information and thrown them back at me. Instead, they sat in the auditorium respectfully and began to contemplate what they might each do to complete a six hour Senior Project.

Mollie Fitzgerald, who has been delightful to work with as class president, Syd Meinking, Ryan Henke, Evan Stanley, Bobby Capobianco, and Brian Wozniak planned a Senior Walk-a- thon that would benefit a group called Operation Thank You which supports our local soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. Over 100 seniors gave up one entire Saturday in May to walk as their Senior Project, and they raised well over $1000 for Operation Thank You. I’d like to thank the many teachers who advised seniors and graded their individual projects.

The Class of 2009 is unique in that it includes two sets of twins Patrick and Andrea Conley, and Andrew and Kevin Ver Hoef and a set of quadruplets: Joseph, Kathleen, Kelly, and Keri Pfaltzgraff.  We have seniors who come to school faithfully while dealing with serious medical challenges, they are true profiles in courage: Ashley Hutson has been a varsity cheerleader, performing with the rest of the squad all the while dealing with Cystic Fibrosis, Deena Trewiler battles Spina Bifada, and Keri Pfaltzgraf always has a smile on her face despite dealing with Cerebral Palsy. 

Three of our LHS teachers have children who are members of the Class of 2009: Kevin Bowdler and his daughter Allison, Kerri Daugherty and her daughter Jillian, and Theresa Hill and her son Andrew Bierke. Our school nurse Vickie Falconi Young has daughter Lindsay, school resource officer Rod Housley has niece Leah Mayes, and Loveland bus driver Ola Smith has a son, Will in the graduating class.

I’d like to thank the staff members participating in graduation today. Leah Evans was selected by this senior class as Teacher of the Year. Trent Compton wrote in his nomination, “From the quirky way she puts a singing hamster on every student’s desk on their birthday to the way she accepts any and all questions and won’t stop explaining until it is completely understood, Ms. Evans deserves this award. She’s inspired me to consider being a math teacher.” Bravo to Ms. Evans and all our staff who work with our students each day, challenging them, supporting them, and helping us maintain our record of excellence.

I wish these seniors all the best as they begin the next phase of their lives’ journeys. Young people, you have the opportunity make a real difference in the world. You are my first four year LHS friends with whom I have been privileged to spend some of the most significant years of your lives. While you are now graduating and moving on, I will remain behind, forever a senior, and truly miss seeing you each day in the halls of Loveland High School. You have been fun people and you have brightened my days!

You are the young people who as freshman first heard me remind students, “If you have to choose between being right and being kind, choose kindness.” After four years, I hope you have each figured out that to be kind is the greatest gift you can give to your family, your friends, your community, your world, and yourself. The Dalai Lama has said that there’s no shop that sells kindness; you must build it within. You can transplant hearts, but you cannot transplant a warm heart. I wish for each of you, now and in the future, forever, a warm heart.

The Downside of Deserve

by Pastor David Smith

The voice within a bullet never lasts

A man murdered in his own church. A security guard killed at a memorial made to halt hate. Both are true stories, unfortunately. During the course of two weeks, Dr. George Tiller of Wichita, Kansas and Stephen T. Johns, a security guard at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial and Museum in Washington D.C., were both gunned down by people who sought inner peace by unleashing outer fury.

Most people call that murder.

Yet, if we’ve read about both stories, some may find more empathy swelling for Stephen T. Johns, the security guard who was on duty at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial and Museum.  He was innocent, not hurting a soul…just doing his job.

For Dr. George Tiller, doing his job is what cost him his life. He was one of the nation’s leading abortionists. Many would say he was not innocent, and that he was not just hurting tens of thousands of lives…but killing them.  Of course, he had been shot before. But not like this. Not in his place of worship.

So what, you may say. He deserved it, floods your mind. He’s no Christian, come the cries.
True? False? Who knows? Maybe that’s not for us to judge. Two men are dead, murdered by the reckless hate that spawns in hurting hearts. Some may think that one man deserved his fate, but the other didn’t.

But there’s a downside to the word deserve.

It implies that some of us deserve something better than others. It implies that our measuring stick of deserve is simply each other. I’m better than you, so I deserve the prime promotion. Or, you’re better than me, so you deserve the Prom Queen on your arm.

What if our measuring stick was different? Look at the murder of Dr. George Tiller. He was within his church walls at the time of being shot. The mainstream Christian belief is that Jesus of Nazareth was the Son of God, sent down to earth in the form of a man to die on the cross for our sins and to rise again to give us new, eternal life. That’s their ‘mantra,’ their belief, their reason for existing. Their measuring stick is Jesus…a sinless, innocent man who gave his life for those who do not deserve it. There’s that word again. In this priceless process, he redefines the definition of deserve. No one deserves his grace, love, mercy, and salvation. You can only accept it. It’s a gift that we unwrap and are changed by, inside out.

The downside of us defining who deserves what is that we end up playing judge. We end up making the rules and designating the kings and minions of the land. Let’s leave that alone. Two men are dead. Two families are crippled with pain. And now many of us may feel the urge to pull a new trigger and judge what has happened to each man.

Let’s leave it alone.

The voice within a bullet never lasts.

- David Smith is the Associate Pastor at NorthStar Vineyard Community Church in Loveland

Influenza pandemic alert raised to phase 6

Influenza pandemic alert raised to phase 6 11 June 2009 -- On the basis of available evidence and expert assessments of the evidence, the scientific criteria for an influenza pandemic have been met. The Director-General of WHO has therefore decided to raise the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6. "The world is now at the start of the 2009 influenza pandemic," she said at a press conference today. Read Dr Chan's statement to the press

Ohio Information

The Ohio H1N1 (swine flu) Information line is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please call 1-866-800-1404 for answers to your questions about swine flu.  As of 8 a.m. 6/10/09, the info line has received more than 1,760 calls.
Listen for an audio recording of a sampling of calls.

 

Read Ohio's latest news.  

 

Ohio’s influenza A (H1N1) (swine flu) cases - as of 12 p.m. 6/10/09

 

CONFIRMED (47)
Allen County – 1 (20-year-old male

Butler County – 2 (30-year-old male, 13-year-old female)
Clark County – 6 (15-year-old male, 25-year-old male, 12-year-old male, 15-year-old female, 13-year-old male, 14-year-old male)

Cuyahoga County – 6 (41-year-old female, 9-year-old male, 14-year-old female, 14-year-old female, 13-year-old male, 14-year-old male)

Franklin County – 16 (31-year-old male, 33-year-old male, 18-year-old male, 20-year-old female, 19-year-old female, 21-year-old male, 20-year old male, 22-year-old female, 23-year-old female, 19-year-old male, 11-year-old female, 13-year-old female, 35-year-old female, 44-year old male, 8-year-old male, 41-year-old male)

Fulton County – 1 (10-year-old female)

Hamilton County – 1 (21-year-old male)

Holmes County – 1 (47-year-old female)

Huron County – 1 (3-year-old female)

Knox County  – 1 (45-year old male)

Lawrence County – 2 (2-year-old male, 8-month-old male)

Lorain County – 1 (9-year-old male)

Lucas County – 1 (14-year-old female)

Mahoning County – 1 (22-year-old female)

Montgomery County – 4 (16-year-old male, 13-year-old female, 9-year-old female, 17-year-old female)

Portage County – 1 (39-year-old female)

Stark County – 1 (29-year-old female)

 

PROBABLE (5)

Cuyahoga County – 2 (20-year-old female, 16-year-old female)

Fulton County – 1 (11-year-old female)

Lucas County – 1 (10-year-old female)

Summit County –1 (40-year-old male)

 

SUSPECT (29)

County-by-county breakdown of cases.

County-by-county breakdown of cases ruled out.

Crime Prevention and Personal Safety Seminar

LOVELAND, OHIO - Karen Folzenlogen says that safety experts agree the single most important step ensuring your personal safety is making the conscious decision to refuse to be a victim. “You stand a much better chance of preventing criminal attack if you develop a safety plan before you need it.” She says that is why the National Rifle Association is offering the Refuse to be a Victim - Crime Prevention and Personal Safety Seminar.

The seminar teaches “easy-to-understand methods you can use to increase awareness and prevent criminal confrontation. In just three to four hours, you will get the tools you need to develop your own personal safety strategy.” The program is designed to help women and men learn how not to be a victim

Here are a few things you will learn:

• How to minimize risk of victimization
• How to create a personalized safety plan before it is needed
• An array of personal safety strategies
• The psychology of criminal predators
• Mental preparedness
• Home and technology security
• Physical security
• Basic self-defense physical training
• Automobile security
• Out of town travel security
• Personal protection devices (non-lethal)
• Safety in the work place
• Protecting children - preschool through college students
• Safety for senior citizens and persons with handicaps

You will receive student handbooks (for you to keep), statistical information, view demonstrated use of non-lethal weapons, and certificate of completion.

Saturday, June 20
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Lebanon Citizens National Bank
500 Loveland-Madeira Road

Cost: $20.00 - This seminar will be co-ed.

This program will be presented by Regional Counselor and Instructor: Jim Bonney
(419) 467-1551

For more information and to register, please contact Karen Folzenlogen
Home phone: (513) 677-1182
Cell phone: (513) 582-6047

Jennifer Reigle one of Loveland's Amazing Women

Reigle to speak: Thursday, June 18, at 10 AM-Blue Chip Gourmet.

LOVELAND, OHIO – Jennifer Reigle will share her expertise and insight on how women can navigatethe maze -  "The 9 Things You Need to Know About Retirement - Why Women Have Unique Considerations." You might not be thinking about this... but you should, especially in these economic times.

Reigle is featured at Blue Chip Cookies' monthly meeting of Loveland's Amazine Women. Thursday on June 18. (It is always the 3rd Thursday of every month.)

Jennifer Reigle's Bio:
Reigle was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio and graduated from Walnut Hills High School. She went to Hanover College and graduated in 1982 with a B.A. in French and Psychology.

Reigle started her career in 1983 at Merrill Lynch in downtown Cincinnati and joined Wachovia Securities, LLC in October of 2008. She is a Financial Advisor and specializes in helping people plan for and enjoy retirement. In particular, she has chosen to focus her practice on helping women gain investment knowledge and become financially strong.

Reigle has served on the Alumni Association Advisory Board for Hanover College and is involved in various organizations, including "WIN" (Women's Idea Network) and the Christian Marketplace Network. She has served on the Finance Committee for Epiphany United Methodist Church and currently serves as the Leadership Chair for Epiphany.

Reigle and her husband Bill live in Loveland with their two sons, Ben and Nate. She enjoys cooking, music, gardening and walking her dog, Tucker.

Blue Chip Gourmet is located at 200 West Loveland Avenue. (rain or shine)

What to bring:  Smile and bring a notebook/paper--Blue Chip supplies the pen.

Please RSVP to Donna Drury.

Healthy Swimming Habits

Help prevent Crypto contamination

HAMILTON COUNTY, OHIO – As area residents jump into the pool to cool off this summer, Hamilton County Public Health wants everyone to understand the healthy swimming habits that can prevent the spread of recreational water illnesses, specifically Cryptosporidium – commonly known as Crypto.

“There are several simple steps I urge swimmers to take to ensure that everyone has a safe swimming experience this summer,” said Hamilton County Health Commissioner Tim Ingram. “If you visit a pool, please do your part to keep it germ free.”

Swimmers can become infected with recreation water illnesses – like diarrhea – by swallowing, breathing or having contact with contaminated water from swimming pools. Swimmers who are ill may contaminate the water, posing a health risk for the healthy swimmers in the pool.

Chlorine kills most germs over time, but some germs – like Crypto – can survive in chlorinated water up to several days. That is why it is important for pool users to practice healthy swimming habits, including:

   1. Do not swim and don’t allow children to swim when experiencing diarrhea. You can spread germs in the water and make other people sick.
   2. Don’t swallow the pool water and try to avoid getting any in your mouth.
   3. Practice good hygiene. Shower before swimming and wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers. Germs on your body end up in the water.
   4. Take children on bathroom breaks or change diapers often.
   5. Change diapers in a bathroom, not poolside. Germs can spread to surfaces and objects in and around the pool and spread illness.
   6. Wash your child thoroughly with soap and water before swimming. Everyone has invisible amounts of fecal matter on their bottoms that end up in the pool.

 More information about healthy swimming is available at www.hamiltoncountyhealth.org and www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming.

My Trash's Afterlife (Part 1)

My Trash's Afterlife (Part 1) Was I wrong to recycle the junk-mail envelopes with plastic windows? Won’t the "Two Buck Chuck" bottle just shatter? A guided tour of trash heaven. —By Josh Harkinson and Alexandra Bezdikian  Read on...

Dump the Pump Day Offers Free Clermont Bus Rides

Free bus rides on all fixed routes June 18

CLERMONT COUNTY, OHIO - The Board of Clermont County Commissioners has declared Thursday, June 18 as Dump the Pump Day in Clermont County.  “We’d like to encourage people to ride public transportation as a way to save money, protect the environment, reduce  our dependence on foreign oil, and to improve the quality of life,” said Clermont Commission president Ed Humphrey.  “As an incentive to park your car and ride the bus, Clermont Transportation Connection (CTC) will offer county citizens free rides on all fixed routes.”

This is the fourth annual Dump the Pump Day, sponsored by the American Public Transit Association.  The organization estimates that people who ride public transportation can save over $8,000 a year, based on parking and gas costs.

“We are seeing an increasing number of people choose to park their cars and ride CTC, especially on our fixed routes from New Richmond and Amelia to downtown Cincinnati and the Milford-Miami Township-Goshen route,” said CTC Director Ben Capelle.  “By offering free fares on the fixed routes on June 18, we hope that more people will discover the benefits of riding the bus to work, doctor’s appointments, and shopping.”

Public transportation saves the United States the equivalent of 4.2 billion gallons of gasoline annually and saves the equivalent of 900,000 automobile fill-ups every day!

For more information about Clermont Transportation Connection fixed routes or the Dial-a-Ride service, visit the Web site www.ctc.ClermontCountyOhio.gov or call (513) 732-7433.

State News

OU: 3rd meningitis case likely.

Ohio University officials reported the school year's probable third case of bacterial meningitis, even though each of the students had been vaccinated against the illness.

Suburbs courting colleges to spur economic boost.

Rally calls for lawmakers to raise taxes to help needy.

Advocates for poor Ohioans are urging Gov. Ted Strickland and legislative leaders to raise taxes to meet the growing needs of low-income children, the disabled, elderly, unemployed and struggling families.

Which Brunner campaign fund paid for what?

Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner is reviewing purchases made by her state campaign to determine whether they included equipment for her U.S. Senate campaign, which would be a violation of federal regulations.

DUI-only courts seem to reduce repeat offenders.

CLEVELAND -- Specialized courts that offer intense treatment programs to repeat drunken drivers are helping to reduce recidivism in some Ohio counties.

Ohio School Board Replaces President

OSU Issues New Crime Alert | NBC4i.com.

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio State University has issued a new crime alert for the Columbus Campus, off-campus housing area.

In the twilight of the evening as you pass those many veteran’s markers….

This is the Memorial Day Address by Jim Poe at Goshen Cemetery on May 25, 2009

I hate to burst the bubble on the boys’,  However I don’t think the four and the first three for sure decided on a military career out of patriotism. They chose it basically for free college.  The patriotism came starting with the first gulf war and was hammered home with 9-11.  Number #4 Blake however was always a warrior. I don’t think he ever wore anything but camo BDU’s at Halloween and he always had a fort instead of a tree house. But you see that between Academy, ROTC, and National Guard scholarships, Judy and I never wrote a tuition check. And, everyone was debt free at graduation. We feel they have probably paid their dues several times over with five total deployments so far to the gulf theater of war, plus tours in Korea along with Air Force and Army Commendation medals, Combat Action badges, and a Bronze Star Medal. The four at his time have jointly served a total of 59 years….and we’re still counting. I’m not sure how she has done it, but Judy has held her breath all 59 years.

It was September of 1970... Judy and I along with our two year old twin sons moved into a year old… new house on Shiloh Road. The house had been built the year before and we were the first and as it has turned out the only owners.  I hired Jerry Turner from Gaynor Road to bush hog the two acres that hadn’t been mowed in several years. 

We learned the three constants of Goshen Township that day and over the next several months. First with that initial mowing, we learned that it’s a shame that there is no market for wild onions. During that late winter and early spring we understood why the early settlers from Pleasant Plain nick named this area Plumb Socks. You see when one steps off of the hard road one sinks in the mud … Plumb past their Socks. But the main thing we learned was that Goshen had for many decades…. a Memorial Day service in this cemetery. A tradition that was started soon after the Civil War. 

It’s probably been twenty years since I stood out there and listened to the late Gordon “Cap” Glancy standing in this exact spot telling of when in his youth being at this same ceremony, listening to what remained of the area’s Civil War soldiers reminisce about their war years.

Over the past four decades this old cemetery has become sort of a friend to me.  I guess my love and interest in Goshen history just sort of led me to these hallowed acres.  I have learned that laid to rest in this small piece of Goshen real estate is the great baseball player Sam Leever... the Goshen Schoolmaster. He pitched in the first world series for the Pittsburgh Pirates… 1903. His first win was against Cy Young.. 1-0. 54 feet 6 inches from Sam is Larry Goetz... long time National League umpire who was pictured on the cover of The Saturday Evening Post… “The 6th Inning”… by Norman Rockwell. Same area is Frank Hogget long time educator of Goshen Schools. He along with cemetery resident Dwight Richie, a store owner, both won the prestigious Grand America Trap Shoot. 

Heading over in that direction we pass the grave of another educator, the superintendent/headmaster of the old Goshen Seminary… which was on the hill above Kroger’s, where Clara Heywood lives. His name, Sanford Turnipseed.  Not far from Sanford is the monument of Chloe Chaney… died in 1865. We don’t know much about Chloe except sometimes when the cemetery is empty a single rose shows up at the foot of her stone. Down over the hill from Ms Chaney is the late John Glancy… a somewhat eccentric, local artist and musician. It is said that one is not a true Goshenite until one owns a John Glancy painting. I finally bought my first three years ago.

Heading up the hill to the right is a line of graves belonging  to the Nichols’ Family, nine children ranging in ages from 6 years to just several days old. We have no Idea of those circumstances.  On top of that hill lies Dr. Lyman one time owner of our Historical Society Museum, The Anchorage. Down just a little from Dr. Lyman is Tubel Early relative of the Confederate General Jubel Early... next to Tubel is his freed Slave. We have no idea what his name was… you see decades ago vandals chipped all of the information off of his stone.

As interesting or boring as this little bit of Goshen history may be... we’re not here today to honor those folks. As we travel these sacred grounds one will notice hundreds of small metal markers standing guard at many of the graves. These represent our veterans starting with the Revolution. I’m embarrassed to say that I can’t give much information about these heroes.  However, I do have some words from a renowned American warrior that I think may help us to see what sort of person lies beneath these markers.

One cannot have sent two sons from the banks of the O’Bannion Creek here in Goshen to the banks of the Hudson River to the United States Military Academy at West Point without having had embedded in their mind… General Douglas MacArthur’s address in May of 1962… shortly before his death… to his beloved Corps of Cadets about their motto - DUTY, HONOR, COUNTRY. In a 35 minute speech without notes the General told the future military leaders about the American fighting man.

And what sort of soldiers are those you are to lead? Are they reliable? Are they brave? Are they capable of victory?

Their story is known to all of you. It is the story of the American man at arms. My estimate of him was formed on the battlefields many, many years ago, and has never changed. I regarded him then, as I regard him now, as one of the world's noblest figures; not only as one of the finest military characters, but also as one of the most stainless.

His name and fame are the birthright of every American citizen. In his youth and strength, his love and loyalty, he gave all that mortality can give. He needs no eulogy from me, or from any other man. But when I think of his patience under adversity, of his courage under fire, and of his modesty in victory, I am filled with an emotion of admiration I cannot put into words.

In twenty campaigns, on a hundred battlefields, around a thousand campfires, I have witnessed that enduring fortitude, that patriotic self-abnegation, and that invincible determination which have carved his statue in the hearts of his people.

In memory's eye I could see those staggering columns of the First World War, bending under soggy packs on many a weary march, from dripping dusk to drizzling dawn, slogging ankle deep through mire of shell-pocked roads; to form grimly for the attack, blue-lipped, covered with sludge and mud, chilled by the wind and rain, driving home to their objective, and for many, to the judgment seat of God.

I do not know the dignity of their birth, but I do know the glory of their death. They died unquestioning, uncomplaining, with faith in their hearts, and on their lips the hope that we would go on to victory. Always their blood, and sweat, and tears, as they saw the way and the light.

And twenty years after In World War II, on the other side of the globe, against the filth of dirty foxholes, the stench of ghostly trenches, the slime of dripping dugouts, those boiling suns of the relentless heat, those torrential rains of devastating storms, the loneliness and utter desolation of jungle trails, the bitterness of long separation of those they loved and cherished, the deadly pestilence of tropic disease, the horror of stricken areas of war.

 

Toward the end of his address the old solider tempers his comments to the cadets with….

This does not mean that you are warmongers. On the contrary, the soldier above all other people prays for peace, for he must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war. But always in our ears ring the ominous words of Plato, that wisest of all philosophers: "Only the dead have seen the end of war.

Back to Memorial Day 2009…

I would challenge all of you… sometime in the next year to travel this old cemetery and enjoy it’s beauty and history… read the stones... but in the cool of the evening while walking… listen… listen… you may hear the sound of a baseball striking leather… a softly called strike… educators lecturing their students… the cry of a heart broken parent… the hushed violin music of a local artist… a former slave singing…… Free at last… free at last… praise God almighty… I’m free at last.

Awwww… but in the twilight of the evening as you pass those many veteran’s markers…. listen more intently and you’ll hear whispering.

These are the special ones… the defenders of the Flag... the protectors of our freedom… Lest we ever… ever forget those we honor here today.

Judy, our four warriors and I wish you a wonderful Memorial Day. God Bless our troops, and God Bless America.

Loveland High Class of '09 Earned $13 Million in Scholarships

Been Making Homemade Ice Cream for a Century

Bethel Murdock Ice Cream Social this Saturday

A topping of Blue Grass

Summer is almost here, and with that comes a century old tradition at an area church- homemade ice cream.

The Bethel Murdoch Presbyterian Church, three miles northeast of Loveland on State Route 48, has been hand churning ice cream every summer for over a century, and hosting  community ice cream socials where people can get a great meal of sloppy joes, hotdogs, homemade cakes, pies and cobblers, and any of eight flavors of ice cream, all freshly made.

Ice cream making starts a few evenings before the socials, which are held on the second Saturday of June, July and August.  Members of the congregation begin gathering in the late afternoon to begin the process of mixing cream, sugar, eggs, and flavors, then churning it five gallons at a time in old fashioned Amish built churns, and by quitting time six hours later they have packed 75 gallons of ice cream that is full of love, flavor and old fashioned memories.

There is more to the Murdoch church’s ice cream socials than just ice cream. The June social features local musical talent, and in keeping with the old timey feel of the social its old time Bluegrass music.  Award winning singer-songwriter Steve Bonafel and his One Iota Band will be featured this year, playing two sets of his unique brand of bluegrass. 

Listen to Steve Bonafel & One Iota - Ballad of Roseanna McCoy

In July, a classic car show is held under the trees behind the church, with dozens of beautifully restored antique and classic cars.  August finishes off the year with a quilt show featuring the beautiful and detailed work of many talented local quilters.  But perhaps best of all is original reason these socials began- to meet and make new friends.

The socials are all on the second Saturday of the month- that’s June 13, July 11 and August 8, start at 4:00 PM, and go until the ice cream is gone. The food and ice cream are at old fashioned prices, and the entertainment and events are always free. Directions and more information are available at www.theBMPC.org, under “events.”  Come on out and enjoy this sweet summer treat.

9602 Murdoch-Goshen Road

(513)583-9676
Off of Route 48 between Maineville and Loveland

No need to call or come in to talk about your child support case

Do a live online chat

Free workshop about proposed new child support guidelines June 5, 2009

Attorneys, probation officers and others with an interest in child support are invited to a free workshop about proposed new state guidelines on Aug. 5.

Attorneys can earn free Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits for the 2:45-5:45 p.m. workshop at 237 William H. Taft Road.

To register, call (513) 946-8251 or e-mail workshop@jfs.hamilton-co.org.

Changes are being proposed by a commission reviewing Ohio's Child Support Guidelines. This workshop will help people better understand what may be coming their way. A brief opening ceremony will honor the annual Child Support Hero.