Loveland Magazine

LOVELAND, OHIO - LENT AND EASTER AT ST. COLUMBAN

LOVELAND, OHIO - Starting March 3 and continuing each Friday including April 7 there will be a fish fry in the Church School Cafeteria between 5:30 - 8:00 PM or take advantage of the Express Carry-out. They’ll be serving the old favorites—Fish dinner, shrimp dinner, grilled salmon dinner, and cheese pizza, along with some new additions: baked potatoes and Gourmet salad.

Also starting on Friday, March 3, and continuing each Friday through April 7 will be the Way of the Cross service at 7:30 PM.

• On Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 7:00 PM St. Columban will present The Passion Play.
• There will be a Reconciliation Service at the Church on Tuesday, April 4 at 7:00 PM.
• On Sunday, April 9 at 8:00 AM, 9:45 AM, and 11:30 AM Palm Sunday Services will be held at the Church.
• On Thursday, April 13, at 7:30 PM a Mass of the Lord's Supper.
• On Friday, April 14, at 7:30 PM a Good Friday Service.
• On Saturday, April 15, at 8:30 PM. an Easter Vigil.
• On Easter Sunday at 8:00 AM, 9:45 AM, and 11:30 AM, Mass will be celebrated.

St. Columban Church
894 Oakland Rd.
Loveland, Ohio 45140-8484
513.683.0105

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - PANCAKE DINNER TONIGHT STARTS EPIPHANY EASTER SEASON

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - There will be a pancake dinner tonight at the Epiphany United Methodist Church at 5:30 PM followed by a 24-hour prayer vigil. The prayer vigil concludes with Ash Wednesday services at 7:00 PM the next day.

• Feb. 28    5:30 PM    Pancake Dinner
• Feb. 28    7:00 PM    Start of 24 hour prayer vigil
• March 1   7:00 PM    Ash Wednesday Service
• April 13    7:00PM    Maunday Thursday Drama
• April 14    7:00PM    Good Friday Services
• April 16    8:15, 9:30, 11:00 AM Easter Services

Epiphany United Methodist Church
6635 Loveland-Miamiville Rd
Loveland, OH 45140
Phone:     513-677-9866

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO - DOUBLE VISION FRIEND DAY SUNDAY

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO - The Loveland Christian Church kicks off the Easter season a little early this year starting this Sunday with their Double Vision Friend Day Sunday.  "We have provided double our normal service times, meeting at 8,9,10 & 11 AM," said Pastor Brian Richard.  "We have invited many people and are praying for double our normal 270 attendance with well over 500." Richards has asked the entire congregation to "tithe" this one Sunday and see if "God does not double our normal giving."  The Church has cancelled their typical Sunday school hour and asked people to serve one hour and attend worship one hour (double blessing).  "We encourage everyone in the Loveland area to come and be apart of this awesome morning.  Hot coffee and pastries will be served."

The following Sunday the Church begins an Easter sermon series entitled:  "7 Last Words of Christ."  They will be producing and handing out a devotional for the 50 days of the series.  Service times will be at 9 and 11 AM with Sunday school at 10AM.

On Easter Sunday, April 16th the sermon will be "Word to the Why's."

They will have a 7:30 AM - Combined Sunrise Service with Loveland Heights Church of Christ at the Symmes Park Amphitheater.

9,10 & 11 AM - Easter Worship. Hot coffee, juice and pastries will be served throughout the morning.

They will conclude the season with an After Easter Choir Performance during the 11AM-worship service on Sunday, April 23rd.

Richard said, "Everyone is welcome to any and all services."

LOVELAND CHRISTIAN CHURCH
12070 Lebanon Rd.
Loveland, Ohio
683-0591

LOVELAND, OHIO - FORMER LOVELAND/SYMMES BATTALION CHIEF PROMOTED TO ACTING CHIEF OF NOVI, MICHIGAN

LOVELAND, OHIO - ON FEBRUARY 21,  Jeffery R. Johnson was named acting chief of the Novi, Michigan Fire Department.

Johnson, 42, was hired as assistant fire chief in 1999, when he joined Novi's department from Loveland, Ohio. Johnson served for 16 years with the Loveland-Symmes Fire Department in Loveland, where he was a Battalion Fire Chief.

Johnson and his wife, Elizabeth, have two children, Heather, 17, and Holly, 13. He is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati and is completing a master's degree in liberal studies, with a concentration in public safety technology, at Eastern Michigan University.

When Novi hires a new city manager, possibly by the spring, the city is expected to make a decision about hiring a permanent fire chief.

Johnson oversees a combination of full time and paid-on-call employees who operate from four fire stations located throughout the city.

"I was pleased to appoint Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Johnson to the important public safety position of Acting Fire Chief," said Interim City Manager Clay Pearson. "We are very fortunate to have someone so capable to fill this role from within our staff. Jeff will continue to lead our Novi Fire Department with its combined system in an outstanding fashion."

Acting Chief Johnson is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the Southeastern Michigan Association of Fire Chiefs, the Western Oakland Mutual Aid Association, and the Western Wayne County Fire Department Mutual Association.

Novi is in Oakland County, Michigan, in the Detroit metropolitan area, approximately 25 miles northwest from the center of Detroit. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 47,386. Novi is one of the fastest growing cities in Michigan, and is now considered to be one of the most affluent cities in Michigan.

LOVELAND, OHIO - KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION BEGINS

LOVELAND, OHIO - Beginning Wednesday, March 1, Loveland School District will be offering kindergarten enrollment packets for the 2006-07 school year.  Students are eligible to enroll in kindergarten if they will be five years old on or before September 30, 2006.  Loveland kindergarten programs are a half-day - everyday format.

    Enrollment packets will be available at the Loveland Early Childhood Center (LECC) located at 6740 Loveland Miamiville Road.  Packets can be picked up between 9 AM. and 3 PM.  At the time of packet distribution, the office staff will need basic information (child’s name, parent names, and address).  Any adult, other than the child’s parent, may pick up a packet and will need to provide the above information.

    The Loveland Early Childhood Center serves 500 students—all Loveland kindergarten students, special needs preschoolers, and a portion of the district’s first graders.

    School visits/tours are available on a scheduled basis, although due to demand and classroom interruption we cannot offer in-class observation to visitors.  If you have questions, call LECC at 683-4200.

LOVELAND, OHIO - SCHOOLS LOOKING FOR SCIENTISTS

LOVELAND, OHIO -  Loveland Primary and Elementary Schools are making preparations for the 6th Annual Science Day.  The event will take place on Friday, April 21, 2006 from 9 AM. to 1 PM.

    Science Day is a day when presenters in all areas of science and technology spend part of their day sharing their knowledge with our students.  Presenters can be professionals working in the field of science or they can be anyone who enjoys science and wants to share.  The program is designed to provide hands-on activities and a chance to hear presentations that will spark an interest in the world of science and technology for Loveland students in grades 1 through 4.  The hope is that this will support a growing interest in the fields of math and science for our students.  Students rotate through 25-minute presentations hearing, learning, and doing lots of science activities.

    The schools need your help to make this very important event successful for the students.  They are currently looking for volunteer presenters and helpers.  If you, or someone you know, would be interested in being a presenter, please let them know.  For more information, or to volunteer, please contact Diane Boys at 677-6642, boysdc@fuse.net  or Kevin Fancher at fancheke@loveland.k12.oh.us.

    You may also call LovelandPrimary School @ 683-3101 to speak with Mr. Fancher about this exciting opportunity to brighten and enlighten the young minds in our community.

LOVELAND, OHIO - BROADWAY CLOSED ON MONDAY

LOVELAND, OHIO  - The City announced that Broadway will temporarily be closed on February 27th from 9:00AM - 5:00PM for the relocation of telephone lines.  East Broadway will be closed between the Five Points Intersection, south to Hanna Avenue.

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO - TIGERS ADVANCE IN STATE TOURNAMENT

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO - The Loveland High School Men's Basketball team will play the Mt. Healthy Owls on Monday night in the next round of play in the Ohio High School Basketball Tournament.

Underdog Loveland beat league rival Amelia last Wednesday night 56-54.

Loveland Senior, Ross Siekman scored 15 points and pulled down 6 rebounds. Freshman, Bobby Capobianco scored 11 points, with 6 rebounds and 3 blocked shots. Junior, Justin Gatton also scored 11 points for the Tigers.

Mt. Healthy's Anthony Billups is their leading scorer averaging 11.1 points per game and early in the season scored 27 against Colerain. Billups is a 6'6" 190 lbs. Senior and also leads the team in rebounds with 7.3 per game. This will be Mt. Healthy's first game of the tournament after getting a bye in the first round.

The game starts at 6:30 PM at Xavier's Cintas Center.

View the Tournament Bracket

WASHINGTON, DC - ANSWERS TO YOUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MEDICARE PART D

LOVELAND, OHIO - CITY MANAGER INVESTIGATED FOR RELEASE OF PERSONAL TAX INFORMATION

LOVELAND, OHIO - If found guilty, Loveland City Manager, Tom Carroll could be imprisoned, pay fines, and lose his job.

The Clermont County Prosecutors Office is investigating a complaint that Carroll released the personal tax information of a Loveland resident in a press release he issued on October 14 of this year.

Section 183.10 of the Loveland Code of Ordinances says in part, "Any information gained as the result of filing any tax returns or any investigations, hearings or verifications required or authorized by this chapter shall be confidential, except for official purposes and except in accordance with proper judicial order." The code further says, " No employee of the Finance Department shall disclose to the general public or to any other Municipal Department data concerning individual earnings…"

The complaint arose during a February 8 meeting of the City's ad hoc Citizen Tax Review Panel. The panel was formed to study and make recommendations on changes in how the City administers its Income Tax Code. Former Mayor Brad Greenberg appointed the committee last November when national news headlines broke after residents were charged with criminal offenses for owing miniscule amounts of back taxes.

In a recent court settlement in two of the tax cases the City agreed to review any concerns the defendants or their attorneys have about the City of Loveland income tax code. Attorney, Chris Finney who represented the individuals said he told the Panel that one of the changes the City should make is do something about the City Manager releasing personal tax information to the public. Two citizens, also at the meeting, said that the allegation must be investigated. Loveland Chief of Police, Dennis Rees agreed to initiate an investigation, which was initially turned over to Loveland Detective Hugh Bomske. When asked if he was doing the investigation, Bomske said, "No, I'm not doing the investigating. I'm the liaison, and the case has been referred to the Clermont County Prosecutor." Bomske was asked the question again, "But, you haven't done any investigating?"  Bomske  said, "Correct. I've gathered some information. I've passed it on to the Prosecutor and obviously I'm not to do the investigation - for obvious reasons."

However, one person told Loveland Magazine that they were contacted by Bomske who said he wanted them to come to the Loveland Police station to talk. That person said, "No." The person then agreed to provide information to Bomske via e-mail. Bomske said the Clermont County Prosecutor asked him to call and question the person about the complaint against Carroll.

The Loveland Code says, "Any person divulging such information shall on conviction thereof, be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and shall be subject to a fine or penalty of not more than  $500.00 or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both. Each disclosure shall constitute a separate offense. In addition to the above penalties, any City employee who violates the provisions of this section relative to disclosures of confidential information shall be immediately dismissed from the service of the City."

Bill Taphorn is the City Finance Director. Taphorn said he thought the case was being turned over to the county prosecutor because, "How do you investigate your boss?" Taphorn said he has not been contacted by anyone concerning the investigation

Taphorn also said it was his understanding that the information in the press release issued by Carroll, "was generated as a result of the court case and other information that was otherwise available in the public arena - so they didn't divulge anything that wasn't already out there."

Attorney Finney said that this is not true. He said that none of the information Carroll released was in any of the court papers he filed and the City could not legally release the information as part of bringing the charges against his client. He said the City released all of his client's confidential information on the web, "Illegally."

"It is utterly untrue. My client had no public record before it was put on the City web site. They totally exposed her tax records."

Finney said the press release was taken off of the City web site after the charges were brought up during the Tax Review Panel hearing. He said, the City seemed to be taking the complaint seriously at least initially, "But, Loveland has a way of making their problems go away and disappear."

"They charge other people criminally with things, but when there is a clear violation within city hall, they ignore it."

Taphorn said he believes Carroll has hired an attorney.

Taphorn also said that he was not personally involved in issuing the press release. When asked if he knew how Carroll got the information, he said it was his understanding that former Mayor Greenberg, "wanted something on the City web site to refute or counter" what Chris Finney was saying about the charges brought against his clients."

Taphorn said, "Tom and Kim got together and put the information together and then talked to the Solicitor." Kim Vollet is the City Tax Administrator and is hired by the City Manager, but reports to Bill Taphorn.

Kim Vollet was not available for an interview.

Carroll had been serving as the Interim City Manager since November 1, 2005. He was appointed interim City Manager after then-City Manager Fred Enderle resigned to take the City Manager position in Piqua, Ohio. Carroll was promoted to the City Manager position at the February 14, 2006 City Council meeting.

Neither Carroll nor the Prosecutor's office returned phone calls seeking comment.

Read Loveland Tax Code about prohibition of the release of personal tax information. Download section_183.10.html

Read the press release (Loveland Magazine has redacted the personal information contained in the release.) Download press_release.pdf

LOVELAND, OHIO - HELP BUY FLAGS TO HONOR RETURNING WAR HERO

LOVELAND, OHIO - Loveland Magazine wants to purchase 2000 small American flags that will be used by Loveland school children during a homecoming reception for a returning Iraq war hero.

A minimum of $300 needs to be raised immediately.

If you would help with a donation there are two ways:

1. Send a pledge today via email expressing the amount of your pledge.
2. Go to the "Donate" button at the right of this page to make an immediate donation to the purchase of the flags. In the comment box type the word "FLAG."

Any unused funds will be donated to a local Girl Scout troop to help defray the cost of mailing Girl Scout Cookies to troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

THE WHITE HOUSE - GOSHEN'S DAVID A. POE PROMOTED TO MAJOR

The White House - On February 1, acting upon the recommendation of the Secretary of the Air Force, President George Bush, "…has placed special trust and confidence in the patriotism, integrity and abilities of Captain David A. Poe. In view of these special qualities and his demonstrated potential to serve in the higher grade Captain Poe is promoted to the grade of Major, United States Air Force."

Poe has served at Maxwell AFB in Alabama, Tinker AFB in Oklahoma, Nellis AFB in Nevada, Osan AB in the Republic of Korea, and Hickam AFB in Hawaii. In July of 2005 he was assigned another change of duty station to the Pentagon.

With this change Poe now live about fifteen miles from twin brother Major Brian Poe who is assigned to Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

Poe's father, Jim Poe of Goshen Township said, "This is the nearest they've lived to each other since graduating from Goshen High School in 1986. Number three son AF Captain Brady is down the coast at Langley AFB in Newport News, VA." Another brother, Blake Poe, recently returned from a tour of duty in Iraq.

Jim Poe was a former teacher at Loveland High School and Major Poe taught at Goshen High School for five years before entering the military. In an e-mail to the Goshen school staff, Jim Poe said, "The world of the military is not really that much different from the world of education, as each morning the daily announcements are made. The Special Orders came through and we hope that you are as proud of David as Judy and I are."

Major Poe's family, includes wife Christy and sons David and Jacob.

LOVELAND, OHIO - DIGITAL EBOOKS AND AUDIO BOOKS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT LOCAL LIBRARIES

LOVELAND, OHIO - The Ohio eBook Project is a source of digital eBooks and Audio Books for your enjoyment. Patrons of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County can browse and search hundreds of titles and download them to computers, transfer them to portable devices, or burn them onto CDs for reading and listening anywhere, anytime.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH - MARIAN A. SPENCER

BLACK HISTORY MONTH - Marian A. Spencer (From the Guide to 20th Century African American Resources at the Cincinnati Historical Society Library.)

Marian Alexander Spencer was born in Gallipolis, Ohio in 1920. Spencer, her twin sister, two brothers and parents lived in the home her grandfather, a freed slave from West Virginia, built after moving to Gallipolis. She began her long career as an activist for civil rights when she became a member of the NAACP at age 13. In 1938, Spencer graduated from Gallia Academy High in Gallipolis where she was co-valedictorian and a member of the National Honor Society. After graduation, she moved to Cincinnati to attend the University of Cincinnati where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1942. In 1940, she married Donald A. Spencer, a Cincinnati teacher and real estate broker. They had two sons, Donald Jr. and Edward Alexander.

Perhaps one of Spencer’s earliest most visible civil rights activities came in 1952 when she chaired the NAACP Legal Action vs. Coney Island. The case started when Spencer’s sons heard a radio ad inviting children to Coney Island to meet a local TV personality. She telephoned to ask if the invitation applied to all children and was assured that it did; however, when Spencer added, "We are Negroes," the Coney Island representative admitted the invitation did not extend to Negro children. Spencer filed suit and subsequently won the case, which desegregated Coney Island.

Spencer spent a lifetime as a community servant and civil rights activist, working especially hard to desegregate public schools. She became a life member of NAACP, serving on the Executive Board, as chairman of both the Legal Redress and Education committees, and in 1981, became the first female president of the Cincinnati branch. Spencer also served as chairperson of the Community Steering Committee for Indigent Defense, as chairperson of the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, and as president of both Woman’s City Club and Links, Inc. In addition, Spencer was a member of the University of Cincinnati’s Board of Trustees. In 1983, she was elected to Cincinnati City Council as a Charterite and served for one term.

Spencer’s career included numerous achievements as well as many awards and honors for her contributions to human service organizations and civic volunteer work. Among them are: Cincinnati Enquirer Woman of the Year Award; Brotherhood Award, National Conference of Christians and Jews; YWCA Career Woman of Achievement Award; and Humanitarian Award, Freedom Heritage Foundation of Columbus, Ohio.

LOVELAND, OHIO - BROADWAY ROAD CLOSING

LOVELAND, OHIO - The City of Loveland has announced that Broadway Street will be closed starting 9:00 AM. February 20th and will re-open February 22nd at 5:00 PM. East Broadway will be closed between the Five Points Intersection, south to Hanna Avenue.

This road closing is to install a telephone conduit under East Broadway as part of the City's Five Points intersection project.

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - CRIMINAL DAMAGE VICTIMS NEED TO REPORT

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - Miami Township Police have identified the perpetrators of the February 13 criminal damaging (lawn jobs) in the Paxton South and Tanglewood Subdivisions.

The Township Police Department said the perpetrators have confessed to damaging 10 - 15 lawns and mailboxes.

"We have received only five reports from victims. If you were victimized last night, please contact detective Nick Colliver at the Miami Township Police Department at 248-3721."

You can contact the SafetyNet Team from Miami Township via email.

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - FOUR TEENAGERS CHARGED IN 6-MONTH CRIME SPREE

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - A six-month investigation by the Miami Township Police Department has resulted in the arrest of four teenagers on numerous charges of burglary, breaking and entering, theft and criminal damaging in Miami Township and Symmes Township.

The Police Department said that the crimes began in August of 2005 when two of the teens were accused of stealing from unlocked cars and bicycles. During the crime spree, police say the juveniles stole bicycles, committed two burglaries, broke into the Miami Boat Club on two occasions, and committed several acts of criminal damaging and theft.

Included in the criminal damaging complaints are breaking items at the Boy Scouts of America Dan Beard Council firing range, damaging autos and spray painting graffiti on businesses.  The Department said most of the offenses took place in Miami Township's Miamiville area, however the juveniles admitted to additional thefts in Hamilton County's Symmes Township.

Miami Township Police suspect the juveniles, who are 15 and 16 years of age, are responsible for numerous other similar offenses, however these crimes were never reported to police. If there are unreported victims, they should contact Detective John Swing at 248-3721. The juveniles told police the stolen bicycles were thrown into the Little Miami River, and that a canoe stolen from a home along the riverbank in Symmes Township was also sunk in the river.

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - POLICE UPDATE ON CRIME SPIKE

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - The Miami Township Police Department issued the following update on the increase in crime in the township:

Here is an update to our efforts to identify and arrest those responsible for the recent spike of offenses, particularly thefts from cars and criminal damaging. Over the past week the road patrol has made several contacts with suspects that have led to good arrests.  Some of these incidents the officers handled on their own, and on a few occasions they were assisted by the Detectives.

Miami Township Police patrol officers have been patrolling our problem areas.  Below are a few of our recent incidents that led to an arrest.

• 1/29/06    Officer Bullock handled a report of damage from a BB gun in the Pebble Brooke Apartments complex.  Officer Bullock investigated the matter, and got a confession from two juveniles, and charged them with criminal damaging.
• 1/31/06  Officer Howard was dispatched to a theft at Circle K gasoline station/convenience store on SR 28.  She patrolled the area, and found a suspect matching the description.  She conducted an interview and the suspect confessed to the crime.
• 2/2/06 Officer Arter and Officer Bradford were dispatched to a theft in progress on Lantern Post after a tip by an alert citizen.  Both the officers decided to approach the area on foot.  By using this tactic they were able to locate the suspects.  Two people were arrested and charged with numerous crimes. There were 5 victims this night.  Detective Colliver was called out and interviewed the suspects.  Detective Colliver was able to link these suspects to 10 other offenses of theft or criminal damaging.
• 2/3/06 Officer Bradford was dispatched to mailbox and yard damage incidents in Miami Trails.  Officer Bradford patrolled the area and found a possible suspect vehicle.  The young adults in the vehicle admit the crime, and confess to several other previous crimes as well.
• 2/3/06 Officer Willis was dispatched to Belle Meade Farms to investigate damage occurring from a paintball gun.  Officer Willis located 2 juveniles suspects, and charged them both with underage consumption.

Although we have intensified our efforts to interdict these crimes, we are still receiving reports of new offenses almost every day. Overnight last Thursday 2/09 - Friday 2/10 thieves entered three parked autos. Two were parked on business lots at SR 28 and Eunita Drive. The windows were smashed on these cars and small items were taken including Compact Discs, a cellular phone and a BP coffee cup. The third theft occurred on Cottonwood Court in the Linden Woods Subdivision located off Buckwheat Road near St. Elizabeth Anne Seton Catholic Church. This vehicle was left unlocked by its owner. The thieves removed a purse and contents, including a debit card, as well as the stereo from this car.

Citizens are reminded that the police need their help to prevent and solve crimes. Autos should be locked when left unattended and valuables should be removed from the car or put out of sight. Suspicious activity of any kind should be reported to the police immediately so that it may be investigated. Persons with knowledge of crimes, or of people who have suddenly come into the possession of property from unknown or unexplained sources, should contact the police immediately. Failing to report such knowledge could result in charges of a criminal offense against the person who withholds that knowledge.

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - WATER SHUT OFF

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - In conjunction with the complete road closure of the Wards Corner Road and Branch Hill-Guinea Pike intersection, water will be shut off on February 21st from 8:00 AM until approximately 4:00 PM. The following streets will be affected:

• Blackhawk Trail
• Blackhawk Court
• Indian Oaks Drive
• Bonnie Lane
• Pheasant Run
• Wards Corner Road from Branch Hill Guinea to Indian Oaks Drive.
• Quail Run Ct.
• Covey Ct.
• Winding Woods Lane
• Windfield Ct.
• East Knollwood
• West Knollwood
• Windfield Drive
• Hollow Lane
• Boots Lane
• Lewis Road
• Arborcrest Lane
• Epworth Heights
• Branch Hill Guinea Pike from the Wards Corner Water tower to Branch Hill Miamiville.

The SafetyNet Team from Miami Township said, "As a reminder, this is the first road closure (February 20 - 24) for what will be a major intersection improvement project beginning now and continuing into late 2006. All traffic will be detoured onto alternate routes for those five days. Inclement weather may delay the project or extend the closure."

Residents can check the Miami Township website to get updates on the progress of the project, and any new closures that may occur.

LOVELAND, OHIO - TIMMONS GRADUATES FROM BASIC

LOVELAND, OHIO  - Army Spec. David B. Timmons has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.

During the nine weeks of training, Timmons studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training. He also studied drill, ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises.

Timmons is the son of Gary and Mary Beth Timmons of Highridge Drive, Loveland, Ohio. He graduated in 1999 from Loveland High School, and received a bachelor's degree in 2005 from Marshall University, Huntington, W.Va.

LOVELAND, OHIO - A PLACE FOR YOU TO GROW IN THE GARDEN

A Place For You To Grow In The Garden by Roberta Paolo

We are seeking help with some special projects we are working on.

Series of children's books: Life in Granny's Gardens
We are developing a plan for the fourth graders to participate in writing a series of books about Life in Granny's Gardens.  The stories, which will be written and illustrated by the students, will be set in the gardens and tell about the lives and interaction of the many plants and creatures who live there.  Some stories will be from the perspective of the flowers, animals and insects and others from the student's perspective.  This will be a yearlong project with the students working in the gardens and observing and gathering information in the fall and writing and illustrating the books during the winter months.  We hope to bring in authors and illustrators to help guide the students.   We are not sure how it will all evolve but anticipate we will end up with at least one or two books each year that would be worthy of publishing.  The goal is to help children see how everything in the natural world is connected, i.e. the insects in the compost pile may not be as exciting or popular as lady bugs, but that are just as important to the gardens.  And, to offer our students an exceptional language arts experience they will remember the rest of their lives.

We need help with writing letters and e-mails and making contacts with people to support the project.  We are also hoping to find someone who would be willing to take this on as a special project and serve as the primary contact person and organizer.  We anticipate we will end up with enough good material to publish one or two books.  We have one publisher that is willing to at least take a look at what we produce with an eye toward publishing and we will be seeking others.

Human Resource Manager
We are seeking the assistance of someone with experience in human resources to assist with developing the administrative infrastructure that we will need as we have employees, i.e. garden assistant and volunteer coordinator, to assist Granny in running the organization.

Resource Development
We are seeking more volunteers to assist with researching potential resources to support the garden program.  We have two volunteers working on this right now but can use more.  Most companies are willing to donate whatever we need, if we just ask.  It takes time to locate the right company and contact person who has the power to say, "yes."  As one of our volunteers said, "It's like a treasure hunt." 

Student Placements And Interns
Another treasure we are seeking are student placements and interns to assist with the program in various ways.  Many courses of study require students to do a placement or internship to gain hands on experience to support their studies.  For example, we have a student from the University of Cincinnati Horticultural Therapy program that worked with us last fall and will be returning in the spring.   One worked with classes in the gardens but where a student is assigned depends on their course of study.  A graphic design student, for example, would work on developing printed material.

Attention Retired Teachers
We have a team of garden volunteers working on a five-year calendar of lessons involving the gardens and trail.  The idea is to begin with kindergarten and continue through fourth grade with activities and lessons that are season appropriate, support state standards, correlate with what is being taught in the classroom and meet the needs of the gardens. When we are finished, each grade will have a calendar of activities and support material appropriate to their grade.  The lesson plans are being simplified so as to be manageable with only a few minutes of preparation by a teacher or volunteer.  Each lesson will include an optional "crash course" on the subject for those wanting or needing to know exactly how to plant seeds, for example.

Our first step was to look at the things many classes are already doing, i.e. pressing flowers, planting the gardens, mulching, composting, collecting seeds, etc. and put them in the appropriate place on the calendar.  We will be surveying teachers as we go along to find out what they are doing that can be related to the gardens, and when it is happening.  For the most part, teachers have been using the gardens to meet science standards.  The new lessons will offer options that will support what they are teaching in the other topic areas as well.

We are seeking the guidance of people with teaching experience to assist us with this project.  When we are finished, we will have an important tool that will be of use not only to our schools but also to all schools in the North Eastern United States with school garden programs.

If you can help with any of the above, please reply by e-mail or call 324-2873.  You can also help by forwarding this message to others on you e-mail list that may be able to help.

Thank you,
Roberta Paolo

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - GLOBETROTTING TEENS OF ’06

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - When most teens say they are going on a summer vacation, we visualize them surfing at the beach, riding coasters at a theme park or lounging poolside, certainly not traveling to China or Europe without their parents.

Traveling abroad is what Chelsi and Nathan Creech will do this summer. These Miami Township residents have been chosen to become Student Ambassadors with an organization called People to People. President Dwight D. Eisenhower founded the organization in 1956 to promote cultural understanding among people of various countries. He believed that if people from different cultures came together in peace and friendship, so eventually would countries.

The organization chose these junior-high students partly resulting from their 2003-04 standardized testing scores, as well as through recommendations and an interview process. As Student Ambassadors, they can also earn high school and college credit because of the many educational elements in the program.

Chelsi, whose adventure is the Gateways to China program, said. "Learning more about the history and culture of China will help me appreciate the rights and freedom women have here in the United States." She will travel throughout China for 17 days with a group of approximately 40 other students and four or five chaperones. The experience includes a home stay with a local family; walking on the Great Wall; experiencing a silk factory; visiting the Forbidden City and touring Hong Kong; along the way meeting government officials, ambassadors and the people of one of our country’s major business competitors.

Nathan will take the road— or air— on a European Odyssey, visiting France, Italy and Greece for 21 days. He will have a home stay in one of these countries and will tour Paris, seeing the Mona Lisa at the Louvre; journey down to Italy and visit Vatican City— possibly seeing the Holy Father— and over to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower. His adventure also includes a voyage to the Greek Isles, witnessing first-hand the ancient sites of Athens. He too will meet government officials, ambassadors and people of each country.

"I’m working hard to go Italy, especially Vatican City, because I might be able to see the Pope. Also, I want to go to Greece because I would be able to learn even more about Athens than we did in class." says Nathan.

People to People selects approximately 1% of all U.S. students for this honor. According to their literature, half can't just write a check and go, so most students do fundraising.

These two students are working diligently to earn the nearly $6,000 each needed to cover tuition. Their entrepreneurial activities include fundraising dinners at Max and Erma’s, selling customized Santa letters, baby- and pet-sitting. They plan to hold themed basket raffles and sell painted terra-cotta pots in the early spring. One method of fundraising involves asking for sponsorships from corporations, foundations, government officials and people in their family and local community. If you which to sponsor these students please email: P2P@creechcreative.com.

SYMMES TOWNSWHIP, OHIO – QUEEN ABBY JONES

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO – Loveland High School Senior Class President, Allison Smith crowned Abby Jones as the Winter Homecoming Queen at the Parent's Night basketball game on February 14. The day was also Valentines Day.

LOVELAND, OHIO - FEBRUARY CHARACTER QUALITY OF THE MONTH: RESOURCEFULNESS BY BILL CROSKEY

RESOURCEFULNESS by Bill Croskey

The February Character Quality of the Month is Resourcefulness. Character First defines it as  "Finding practical uses for that which others would overlook or discard." The Action Steps:

• See values in objects, ideas, and people
• Repair, reuse, and recycle
• Make wise use of my time, talents, energy, and mind
• Give away or sell the things I do not use
• Do not litter.
• What comes to mind when you think of Resourcefulness?  I am a bit embarrassed to tell you what I think of. Here's a hint.

"With his Faithful Indian companion, Tonto, the daring and resourceful masked rider of the plains led the fight for Law and Order in the early West." 

You twenty- and thirty-somethings are still not tuned in. Well, that was the point! First on radio, and then in 1950's TV, we were given a few bars of the "William Tell Overture," invited to "return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear," and, at the end of the program, reminded to "tune in next week, same time, same station, when The Lone Ranger rides again!" 

Later, in my older days, when I learned what resourceful meant, I could never figure exactly why the Lone Ranger was resourceful. (Daring? Yes. But not so much resourceful.) Oh, he "repaired, reused, and recycled." He was a Texas Ranger who got shot and was presumed dead along with 5 other Rangers.  (Get it? The Lone Ranger!?) He needed a mask so he cut up one of the dead guys' vests. He roped a wild stallion and tamed him to get his horse, Silver. He had a silver mine, the source of his silver bullets - and his way of buying food, because he did not actually work for a living. (Even then, crime fighters were not well paid. Ask Officer Barnes and Deputy Housley.)  He gave away lots of money to people who needed it. He was Generous, but I did not see the Resourcefulness. Now MacGiver! That guy was resourceful!

But, as I look at the definition of Resourcefulness, I can see why he was called that. It means to see the value in objects, ideas, and people. That WAS the Lone Ranger. Before it was politically correct, the Ranger was doing good for Native Americans, poor people, women, children, and immigrants.  There was even a Lone Ranger's Creed: All men are created equal.

Everyone has it in him or her to make a better world.  God put the firewood there, but it was up to individuals to gather and light it. Be prepared to fight when necessary. Make the most of the equipment you have. Government of the people, by the people, and for the people shall live always. Live by the rule of what is best for the greatest number.

Sooner or later, we must settle with the world and make payment for what we have taken. All things change but truth, which lives on forever.

You think I'm making this up as I go along? I'm not. And, of course, neither did the Lone Ranger.

It's funny; we didn't have character education in school when I was growing up. We had Sunday School, we had Scouts. We had Hi-Y and Y-Teens. But we learned some of our character building from TV -  "The Adventures of Superman," "The Lone Ranger," and, yes, "Father Knows Best."  The word that was often used was wholesome.  The Sixties kind of did that in. From then on, one had to be "in" which meant a little sarcastic, a little cynical, a little sophisticated. Too sophisticated to accept bromides such as "all things change but truth, which lives on forever." Lenny Bruce, the social commentary comic of the 1960's, ripped the Lone Ranger legend to shreds. The Sixties idea of crime fighting was Batman and "The Man from Uncle." Campy. Parody. Not much in the way of values.

Or, at least I thought I was too sophisticated for that. Now, I see the value that I got from such simplistic (more likely just simple) sayings. I know we can't have back the simplistic TV of the 50's. But you can't blame an old guy for getting nostalgic - no, famished - for some wholesome values. I ask you, what brings a tear to your eye or a tug at your heart? Cynicism? Or a Creed to live by?

LOVELAND, OHIO NEWS – CORRECTION: CREATIVE MEMORIES WORKSHOP

LOVELAND, OHIO NEWS – The date for the Creative Memories Workshop at the Loveland Historical Society Museum is April 24, not March 24, as previously published. The story has been corrected.

GOSHEN TOWNSHIP, OHIO - MEET MR. LINCOLN

GOSHEN TOWNSHIP, OHIO - The Goshen Township Historical Society will host "An Evening With Mr. Lincoln" on Wednesday, February 22 at 7:00 PM at the Goshen Library, State Route 132. The reenactment program is free and open to the public. Union Civil War reenactors are welcome to attend in uniform.

“Experience a living history account of the life of Abraham Lincoln as presented by Stan Wernz. Hear about his,successes, his doubts, his dreams and his fears, all taken from writings and speeches of our 16th President.”

Programs have varied emphases and are appropriate for all ages.

Seen in People and Time Magazine.

For more information call 513-314-0697. E-mail.

Download Flyer: Download Page1LincolnBrochuredraft2.pdf

LOVELAND, OHIO – JAN RANARD: AMAZING, HOW POWERFUL AN ACT OF LOVE CAN BE

LOVELAND, OHIO - “The inspiration for the card came quite naturally, and without hesitation. I feel that music centers us, depending on where we are at what point in time,” said Symmes Township resident Jan Ranard.

Ranard won this year's Valentine card design contest sponsored by the Loveland Area Chamber of Commerce. She said, “Music can mentally provide an escape, or build on excitement, much the same way that love can."

Ranard said that the inscription on the card Love is Music to your soul exemplifies that thought. “Our home has a collection of artwork based on music and musical instruments.”  She said that in the card is each type of instrument that represents each person in her immediate family. Ranard herself plays the piano; her husband Jonathan once played the trumpet. Her oldest son, Zac plays the Sax, and son Sam plays the upright bass. “So, all four instruments are tucked inside the heart on the card.”

In her home are enlarged, poster size, black and white photos of Zac and Sam from concerts they performed in, at Loveland High School. She says that these very artistic photos of Zac with his Sax, and Sam with his upright bass are excellent examples of the images that come to “my heart and soul” when she designed the card.

Ranard was asked to recall an act of love she has witnessed, and she said there was one, that stands out in her mind personally,

“When Sam was very young, and not spelling words, he would make  the I (heart) U on bits of paper, fold and hide them around the house for me to find. They were very precious to me and I always found them at the most unexpected times. A few years later, I had surgery while he was away for a week at overnight camp. I was feeling pretty homesick for 'my boys' one day, and looked for ways to pass the time. I decided to clean out drawers in our dining room buffet, and along with feeling out of sorts, was regretting my choice of tasks when I noticed a little folded scrap of paper ...amazing how powerful an act of love can be.”

As far as romance, Ranard says she feels very very fortunate to be married to a man that still has the same qualities as when they first met twenty-four years ago. She said that Jonathon  is still is her best friend, and the only thing that has changed, is that each and every day she can feel more love. “Jonathan is one of the kindest and most thoughtful persons that God created.” She said that Jonathon brings her flowers when, “I least expect it, and picks me up and cheers me on when life presents hurdles.”

“I hope that our sons emulate their father. Everyone should be blessed with someone like him.”

Ranard owns Pizazz Studios in Historic Downtown Loveland. She said that other art that she does is usually on furniture, “Lots of pattern, whimsical and fun, sort of a blending of Mackenzie-Childs and Mary Engelbreit, on a very very humble scale.”  She is  just finishing a stool for Dr. Moorhead, the Loveland High School Principal. It belonged to Dr. Moorhead's grandmother. “The turnings were all done by hand, and it is wild and fun. I hope she likes it.”

LOVELAND, OHIO – LOVE SONG

LOVELAND, OHIO - "Troubles Down the Road" is not the prediction the title suggests, but is a sweet love song written and performed on the piano by Loveland student and Miami township resident, Logan Sand.

Well I never thought someone like me could ever meet you...

So, when I'm walking down the road of life,
And need someone to hold,
You'll be with me down that long, lonely road.

I don't know what I would do,
If I had to go on without you.

I want you to know I'm thinking about you.

When you can't make it through,
The night.
I'll be there,
With open arms,
To hold you tight.

Listen to "Troubles Down the Road" written and performed by Logan Sand.

You can read more about Sand's music here.

Logan has another song out on his Piano teachers website: www.aaronokeefe.com

 

Go to "recordings" then to "Logan".  It's called Grandma's song....a song he wrote (Lyrics and music)  for his grandma Sandy.

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO NEWS - COMPLETE ROAD CLOSURE

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO NEWS - As part of the Branch Hill-Guinea Pike and Wards Corner Road intersection alignment project, the intersection will be CLOSED to all traffic from February 20-24 by the Clermont County Engineer's Office for a water main relocation project. All traffic will be detoured onto alternate routes for those five days. Inclement weather may delay the project or extend the closure.

“For the remainder of the year, the Branch Hill-Guinea Pike and Wards Corner Road intersection will be undergoing significant repairs as the Clermont County Engineer's Office begins a project of realigning the intersection to improve safety and the flow of traffic,” according to the The SafetyNet Team from Miami Township

"After the February closing, the contractor plans to work the entire project in two phases, and at times will be closing two legs of the intersection during each phase. Complete road closures will be minimal, according to the contractor. The roadway will be closed to all traffic during the work day (10 hours)."

COMPLICATING FACTOR
“A possible complicating factor is that there will be a major construction project in downtown Loveland at the intersection of Broadway and S.R. 48. This project is also slated for a February start date. The concern here is the impact on the flow of traffic trying avoid the construction areas.”

Residents can check the Miami Township website to get updates on the progress of the project, and any new closures that may occur.

You can also contact The SafetyNet Team via email.

LOVELAND, OHIO - BLUES, BOOGIE WOOGIE AND NEW ORLEANS PIANO

LOVELAND, OHIO - Ricky Nye and Nick Lloyd played to a full house at Paxton's Grill in Downtown Loveland on Saturday night in the self described style of Memphis Slim and Willie Dixon and "Slim" Galliard and "Slam" Stewart. Ricky Nye (piano and vocals) and Nick Lloyd (upright bass) are doing their part to keep alive this fine tradition. Born out of Nye's "Swingin' Mudbugs" trio, this duet draws from blues, boogie woogie and New Orleans piano styles.

Listen to their Suitcase Blues.

Listen and watch a video performance, "The Saturday Night Guitar Pull"-  available at thesaturdaynightguitarpull.com. (click on "Cincinnati", then scroll down to "Ricky Nye")