Loveland Magazine

Up-Date: Cast Call for Miss Saigon

New Cast Call and Show Times Announced

LOVELAND, OHIO - The Loveland Stage Company has issued new information about the cast call for Miss Saigon. For audition information: Download cast_call_miss_saigon.pdf.

Kay Bolin-O'Grady said, "The exciting news is Miss Saigon will be the first performance in our renovated Loveland Stage Company theater.  After such a devastating fire October 20th of this year, we all are focused on rebuilding the theater better than ever and what a show to enforce that.  The first production of Miss Saigon in a Community Theater."

Tigers win Milford/Miami Township Victory Bell

Tigers 27 Milford 7

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO – The Loveland Tigers finished their football season without a home loss, and fourth in the Buckeye Division with two division wins. Overall it was a winning season for the Tigers with a 6-4 record, 2-3 in division play. Before the season, Loveland had never won a game in the Buckeye Division.

The season ended on a very sweet note, as the Tigers took claim to the Milford/Miami Township Victory Bell by beating Milford 27-7 last Friday night. The entire team immediately circled the bell, whooping and hollering, hugging, and ringing the bell hard enough to break the clapper. The seniors then gathered at mid field and huddled, celebrating the end of their successful season, with more hugs and high-fives, before taking advantage of a muddied field to slide headfirst across the slippery turf.

In the photo to the left, Junior Dustin Brown took possession of the victory bell holding it up to his team and coaches. In the photo above you can see the pride in the faces of the team's seniors.

Kirk Morra ran twenty times for 120 yards for the Tigers.

School Board enacts measures to protect tax money

LOVELAND, OHIO - Loveland City School Superintendent, Dr. Kevin Boys called the State Auditor's fraud hot line on August 29, 2007 after a District employee said District Treasurer, Jill Manville might be using school credit cards for personal use. Manville was put on paid administrative leave the same day and resigned on January 31, 2008. On September 5, 2007, Boys sent a formal letter requesting the State Auditor's assistance in addressing the allegations.

On October 3,State Auditor, Betty Taylor accused Manville of illegally using nearly $60,000 of the children's school funds from March 1, 1999 through August 31, 2007.

During the months between when the theft in office allegations came to light, and the Auditor's report, the Loveland Board of Education has implemented several changes in District policies to prevent future cases of abuse by employees.

Below is a list compiled by Loveland Magazine, of many of  the changes made to date. Boys said today, “There are things we still plan to refine based on the Auditor's report and the District Audit Committee is already hard at work on this.”

Policies implemented by Loveland Board of Education addressing concerns raised by the Auditor of State

• Implemented new policies related to authorizing job expenses and the process required for reimbursement. These policies cover classified and certified staff members and specifically state that unauthorized expenses inclusive, are are not limited to, alcohol. In-room snack bar, movies, supplemental insurance on rental cars, fines for traffic violations, and expenses related to spouses attending a trip with staff member or Board member.

• Policies adopted in May, 2008 expressly address the management recommendations concerning approval of credit card charges, travel expenses, frequent flyer credits and other similar rewards.

• The Board has revised its cellular phone policy and the Business Manager has drafted and sent a letter to all personnel possessing a District phone which outlines allowable charges and consequences for overcharges. Since taking over the responsibility of Purchasing Agent, the Business Manager is using state pricing for cell phones. Usage is monitored, and invoices for overages and prohibited services are given to employees.

• Whistleblower Protection Policy was enacted before concerns about Ms. Manville were brought to the attention of the Superintendent. The employees who came forward stated that this policy being in place was the impetus for the employees’ decisions to report the matter to the Superintendent.

• Policy 8320 was revised on 6/26/08, to make it the responsibility for maintaining the personal file of the Superintendent and Treasurer of the Assistant Superintendent of Personal.

• The Superintendent and Treasurer report to and are directly hired by the Board of Education. t It has not been the practice of the Board to assign supervisory duties for a direct report to the other direct report. Since the employment of the new Treasurer that replaced Manville, the Superintendent has agreed to review for approval all leave forms of the Treasurer. Likewise, the Treasurer has agreed to review for approval all leave forms of the Superintendent.

• Policy 3440 (revised 5/20/08) directs expense reimbursement for the Superintendent and Treasurer to be reviewed for approval by two individuals.

• Policy 3440 (revised 5/20/08) strictly prohibits the accrual of personal frequent flyer miles, reward points, etc., and (AG3440) specifies that a travel agent will sit up a district program for accumulating reward points to defray the cost of future District travel.

• At the September 18, 2007 Board meeting, the Board of Education appointed the Business Manager to serve as the Purchasing Agent for all district purchasing. 

• The Board adopted Policy 6835 which establishes an Audit Committee comprised of community members with specific professional expertise in the accounting and audit process.  The first assignments are to review the Special Audit issued by the State Auditor, and to prepare for the regular 2008 Audit.  The committee is in the process of reviewing the special audit’s findings and recommendations, reviewing policies and procedures that have already been revised, and formulating recommendations to further strengthen controls.

Support Clermont Veterans at Annual Parade

CLERMONT COUNTY, OHIO – You can show your support for veterans and active duty troops by attending the annual Clermont County Veterans Day Parade, sponsored by the Clermont County Council of the American Legion, in cooperation with the Clermont Veterans’ Service Commission. The parade will be held on Tuesday, November 11, at 7 PM in downtown Batavia. (Those wishing to participate in the parade should meet at 6 PM. in front of the Batavia Post Office on Main Street.)

“We encourage everyone to show their support for our veterans and troops by standing along the parade route and waving an American flag,” said Veterans’ Service Office Director Dan Bare.  “This is an excellent way the community can come together to show our veterans and troops how much we appreciate their sacrifices.”

Following the parade, the Batavia Fellowship of Churches will serve free soup and sandwiches at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 277 North Street in Batavia; everyone is welcome.

If you would like to participate in the parade, or for more information, contact the Clermont County Veterans’ Service Office at (513) 732-7363.

Loveland Area Begging and Trick or Treat Hours

All local begging on Halloween will be done on Friday, October 31 between the hours of  6-8 PM.

City of Loveland - 6-8 PM

Goshen Township - 6-8 PM

Deerfield Township:

• Trick or Treat Celebrated from 6-8 PM
• Oct. 29th - Deerfield Township & Deerfield Towne Center Present:  Halloween Treat Street from 6 - 8 PM (At the Towne Center near Talbots)

Symmes Township - 6-8 PM

Miami Township - 6-8 PM

Hamilton Township - 6-8 PM

Milford from 6-8 - 6-8 PM

Board Approves Resolution Verifying Millage Drop

At its October 21 meeting the Loveland Board of Education passed the following resolution of intent to cease collection of a portion of new operating millage commensurate with reduction in bond retirement millage.  This resolution verifies that the new millage collected if the November 4th operating levy passes will equal the amount of bond millage dropping off resulting in a zero net increase in taxes.

WHEREAS, the School District issued bonds dated April 1, 2005 (the "Bonds"); and
 
WHEREAS, the debt service requirements for the Bonds in Tax Collection Year 2009 are significantly less than what was required in Tax Collection Year 2008, due to a planned millage drop; and
 
WHEREAS, the Board has placed a 3.50 mill new operating levy (the "Levy") on the November 4, 2008 ballot; and
 
WHEREAS, due to economic conditions it is the intent of the Board to provide tax relief from the Levy to its voters in 2009 in an amount commensurate with the planned millage drop relating to the Bonds;
 
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Education of the Loveland City School District, Hamilton, Clermont and Warren Counties, Ohio, that:
 
Section 1. If the Levy is approved by the voters of the School District November 4, 2008, the Hamilton County Budget Commission is hereby directed for Tax Collection year 2009 to cease collection of a portion of the Levy commensurate with the reduction in bond retirement millage for the Bonds for Tax Collection Year 2009.
 
Section 2. A copy of this resolution shall be certified to the Hamilton County Budget Commission following passage. The Treasurer of the School District is also authorized to provide any additional documentation required by the Hamilton County Budget Commission or the Ohio Department of Taxation in order to effectuate this resolution.    
 
Section 3. It is hereby found and determined that all formal actions of this Board concerning and relating to the passage of this resolution were taken in an open meeting of this Board, and that all deliberations of this Board and of any of its committees that resulted in such formal action were in meetings open to the public, in compliance with all legal requirements, including Section 121.22 of the Ohio Revised Code.

Source: Loveland City School District

Learn More About the November 4th Levy (Frequently Asked Questions and Answers.)

Brave Heart: Welcome Holy Spirit

This coming Sunday Pastor Rich Femia and I are planning to launch a series of teachings on The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit at the Dwelling Place in Loveland, Ohio. The Dwelling Place is a small, intimate fellowship of Believers originally gathered by the Lord out of the Jesus Movement in the Seventies. It was formerly called, Remington Fellowship. Read on... Brave Heart: Welcome Holy Spirit.

Portman's tolerance for incoherence

by David Miller

As John McCain tries in vain to distance himself from the last eight years of Bush II, Rob Portman (Bush III) is apparently launching a Joe the Plumber tour today in Ohio. (Bush IV is John McCain)

There is no one on earth that has been 110% more in line with Bush II's fiscal policies than Rob Portman. How is Portman going to pull off this campaign stunt, when he (Bush III),  held cabinet posts inside the Bush White House. One of them being head of Bush's Office of Management and Budget, the other position as Ambassador/United States Trade Representative? I have never heard Portman provide a subjective criticism of Bush fiscal policies, in fact he has been more articulate at exposing ALL of Bush II's policies than the President himself.

The Joe the Plumber skit is such a ruse. First Joe would be far better off tax wise under Obama's tax plan, as all of the plumbers I know will be. And second, Joe the Plumber apparently doesn't even believe in paying all of the taxes he now owes. Most all of what Bush IV and Palin (Bush V?) have said about Joe Plumbers have been proven false.

It's like when I look at the Loveland City Hall and remember that it used to be architecturally pure. It "was what it was" when it was built. However, in later years, someone decided it should look more like the old ancient building in downtown - so changes were made to the facade attempting to make the building into something it was not.

Now, when I look at the building, I see a disconnect. Fake dormers/gables make the whole building fake.

Can those ideologically bent, get past the disconnect between Joe Plumber and reality? Will their ideology stand in the way of actually voting for what is in their own best self interest?

So, a plumber and a millionaire will tour the State today to convince average folks to vote for Bush IV. Which one, Joe or Rob, will make the other appear "FAKE?" Or, will it just be the message?

As Eugene Robinson said today in the Washington Post, "He (McCain) overestimates the voters' tolerance for incoherence."

I suspect, so has Rob Portman.

(The campaign announcement stated that Rob Portman, the former Cincinnati congressman and White House budget director, would make the tour with a "special guest," but it has been confirmed that the guest is the tour’s namesake. toledoblade.com)

Seniors: There is no free lunch at sales seminars

OHIO DIVISION OF SECURITIES PARTNERS TO MONITOR “FREE LUNCH SEMINARS”

The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Securities is partnering with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) to monitor the presentations made to seniors at “free lunch seminars.” The program will give seniors the opportunity to report any questionable investment practices that they may encounter during a seminar.

Seniors are often invited to free lunch seminars that are advertised as opportunities to learn about investing strategies or money management in retirement.  AARP and the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), which includes the Ohio Division of Securities, are working to monitor whether investors who attend the seminars are being pressured into purchasing unsuitable investments.

A recent year-long examination of free lunch seminars conducted by state securities regulators, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority found that while many free meal financial seminars were advertised as “educational,” 100 percent of the seminars were sales presentations.  Fifty percent featured exaggerated or misleading advertising claims and one-quarter involved recommendations that may have been inappropriate for the attendees.

Clermont Included in Disaster Declaration

CLERMONT COUNTY, OHIO - Clermont County is among 33 Ohio counties President Bush declared a disaster area after the September 14, 2008 windstorm swept through the area.  The remnants of Hurricane Ike caused extreme damage and major power outages throughout the state.  It is estimated that Clermont County received $860,000 in damage as a result of the windstorm.

Recall: SPECIAL KITTY Gourmet Sold at Wal-Mart

Mars Petcare US Issues Voluntary Recall of a Limited Number of Bags of SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Sold at Wal-Mart locations in Fifteen States due to Potential Salmonella Contamination. Read on... Mars Petcare US Issues Voluntary Recall of a Limited Number of Bags of SPECIAL KITTY Gourmet Sold at Wal-Mart locations in Fifteen States due to Potential Salmonella Contamination.

Paxton's Halloween Party Friday

Costume Contest at Paxton's Grill
LOVELAND, OHIO - “We have live music Friday, October 31. Low Country Boil will play from 9 to Midnight. There will also be a costume contest for customers, as well as treats for the little Trick-or-Treaters,” said Paxton''s Manager Ralph Dunnigan.

Dunnigan also said that Paxton's Grill has a new lunch menu Monday through Friday, from 11AM to 3 PM. “It is a lighter menu, but guests can always order off the regular menu as well.”

Paxton’s Grill is the heart of Loveland's Historic Downtown Downtown Business District, at 126 West Loveland Avenue along the Loveland Bike Trail.

Paxton's is named to honor Loveland's founder, Col. Thomas Paxton. The nearby curving bridge over the State and National Scenic Little Miami River is named the Col. Thomas Paxton Bridge. It is reported that During the Revolutionary War, as a Lieutenant Colonel of the Second Battalion of the Bedford County Militia, he ate at the famous Christmas dinner at Valley Forge with General George Washington, the Marquis de Lafay­ette, and Alexander Hamilton.

Benefits of health coverage add up?

Picking the right insurance plan requires research

Advice for picking a plan

For many of us, it's that confusing time when we have to pick a health-insurance plan for the coming year.

Many employees are attending benefits meetings to learn about new or changed health plans, and Medicare recipients are considering whether to switch plans.

For both, the paperwork can be overwhelming. There might be several companies to pick from, and each company might offer several health plans. One option might have high monthly premiums and a low deductible. Another has lower premiums but more out-of-pocket costs.

Which one is right when the economy is so wrong? Experts say to do the math. Read on... The Columbus Dispatch : Benefits of health coverage add up?.

Help with utility bills

Various programs offer financial help to Ohioans who can't afford home-energy costs. Income limitations may apply.

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) can be reached at 1-800-282-0880.

The Ohio Consumers' Counsel, which advises customers on disconnects and payment plans and logs complaints, can be reached at 1-877-742-5622. Read on... The Columbus Dispatch : Help with utility bills.

Getting the Lead Out

Bush administration slashes the airborne limit

 PRESIDENT BUSH has taken his fair share of lumps from us and others concerned about his seemingly all-talk-and-no-action approach to the deterioration of the environment. That's why, when his administration does something of benefit -- in this case, cutting the limit on airborne lead by 90 percent -- he should be given his due Read on... Getting the Lead Out - washingtonpost.com.

Prince of Peace is noodles

Join Loveland's Prince of Peace Lutheran Church and other Cincinnati Lutheran churches in rasiing funds for the First Lutheran Church in Over the Rhine.

"The First Lutheran Church in Over the Rhine Benefit Day"

ALL DAY - Sunday, November 9th

50% of sales from supporters at  any Cincinnati Noodles & Company location will be donated to the Over the Rhine church.

Kenwood - Sycamore Plaza
Hyde Park - Isabella at Paxton
Tylersville - Cox Ln & Tylersville Rd.

Get directions here.

Box + Tape + Paint = Boat?

NEW RICHMOND, OHIO -  “When people walk out of here they’re usually smiling,” said Tom Lemon.  “I’m not sure if they’re laughing with us or at us!”  Lemon is one of the owners of the Cardboard Boat Museum, located on the New Richmond riverfront.  The museum has numerous cardboard boats on display, everything from an Elvis Presley guitar, to replica’s of elaborate paddle wheelers, and a Bat- mobile.

The idea behind the museum began seven years ago, when four friends decided to enter a cardboard boat in the annual New Richmond regatta.  “We got hooked making that airplane boat,” laughed Kenny Smith.  “Every year we try to make a more elaborate one using a lot of corrugated cardboard, tape, and paint.”  They compete under the Team Lemon name and are quite proud of a recent entry, the Water Hogs, featuring several motorcycle boats.

While the boats promote a lot of laughs, crafting them is no easy task.  “On the average, four of us spend about 350 hours working on each of the boats,” said Lemon.  “Our families are also involved in designing boats and competing in various cardboard regattas.”

Smith said that he plans to make and race boats for many years to come, and admits he even enjoys dressing up as Batman in parades where the Batmobile is featured.  “People really respond to it,” he said.

Boats displayed in the museum belong to many people and there is no cost to visit.  The Cardboard Boat Museum, located at 311 Front Street in New Richmond, is open on Tuesday from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.  You can call (513) 403-1675 for more information.

New Web Site for Juvenile and Probate Courts

CLERMONT COUNTY, OHIO - County citizens now have access to the new Clermont Juvenile and Probate Courts Web site; the site offers a large amount of information including name change applications, information about obtaining a marriage license, guardianship forms, Juvenile Court costs and filing fees, and documents pertaining to custody arrangements.  The Web site also includes contact information for the Courts, the Juvenile Detention Center, and the Juvenile Probation Department. 

OFMA appreciates Sebastian

BATAVIA, OHIO - The Ohio Floodplain Management Association (OFMA) has awarded Clermont County Chief Building Official Ray Sebastian a certificate of appreciation for his many contributions to the organization.  Sebastian was among a small group of flood plain managers in the state that established the OFMA in 1995, as a way to reduce property damage and improve life safety issues in areas prone to flooding.

“I am honored to receive this recognition,” said Sebastian.  “I appreciate the opportunity to work with building officials across the state to ensure that new and existing structures are safe for our citizens.”

Sebastian has served in numerous leadership roles over his 13 years of involvement with the OFMA, and was instrumental in developing legislation in the State of Ohio to include flood plain regulations (for both commercial and residential construction) in the Ohio Building Codes.  In 2001, Sebastian was designated Floodplain Manager of the Year.  He has also been involved in the emergency response training of building inspectors throughout the state.

“We are proud of Ray and all he has done to serve not only our county, but citizens throughout the state,” said Clermont Commission President Bob Proud.  “By carefully reviewing flood plains and building plans, inspectors make sure that buildings are safe, healthy, and accessible places to work, shop, and live.”

Will budget cuts leave Santa without wheels

GOSHEN TOWNSHIP, OHIO - Due to budget concerns, the Trustees have decided to cut the appearance of the fire truck and personnel at community events such as home football games, and the traditional Santa Clause on the truck in the annual Light up Goshen Parade.

Trustee Jack Kuntz said the Township is in a tight spot financially, and they have to watch every penny in order to save jobs, “What we’re saying is that the trustees have responsibilities to the financial condition of this Township. We’re looking at every possible way to save money so that we don’t have to fire people.”

Community members in the audience at the meeting spoke out, offering to fund the gasoline needed for the engine themselves, if it meant the trucks would resume public appearances.

Trustees said they are not closed to this idea, “The trustees have made the decision not to have the fire tuck in the parade. The community has spoken that they want the fire truck in the parade and they’re going to pay for it,” said Trustee Jack Kuntz.

The trustees added that passage of the safety services levy would have provided the much needed funding to ease the Township’s financial strain and continue to allow positive public relations such as the fire truck’s public appearances. They said they are considering taking the levy to the voters for a second try sometime in 2009.

At the Loveland Library

Treats & Tales Preschool Storytime

Wear your Halloween costume, share stories, songs, a craft and a special treat.

October 27

• 10 AM (Ages 3-5)
• 11 AM (Ages 18-36 months)

Athletic Booster Craft Sale

Area tradition quarter century young – still going strong Nov. 1

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO - The 25th Loveland High School Art & Craft Expo will be held Saturday, November 1 at Loveland High School from 10AM until 4PM. This year, the expo will showcase the work of over 200 crafters from all over the tri-state area. All items are handmade by the crafters. “The types of crafts available range from jewelry, pottery, purses, seasonal items, paintings, candles, quilts, garden items and so much more,” said Sheryle Kraml.

Concessions will be available as well as raffles and split the pot. “So why not make a day of it and get some of your holiday shopping done early. You're sure to be able to find unique gifts for your friends and family,” said Kraml.

The art and craft expo is sponsored by the Loveland Athletic Boosters and the proceeds go to scholarships for members of athletic and academic teams.

Loveland High School is at #1 Tiger Trail in Loveland, Ohio

“The Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church”

A native of northern Michigan, he now lives with his wife and two daughters in Loveland, Ohio.

YOUNGSTOWN — “The Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church” is the theme of an Evangelization and Catechesis Conference planned by the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 15 at Youngstown State University Kilcawley Center.

Dr. Edward P. Hahnenberg, assistant professor in the Department of Theology, Xavier University, will present the keynote address on “The Word of God in a Consumer Culture: Evangelization and Catechesis Today.”

He is the author of two books — “Ministries: A Relational Approach” and “A Concise Guide to the Documents of Vatican II” along with numerous articles in academic and pastoral journals.

Read on... Diocese of Youngstown to sponsor conference - Vindy.com News - Religion - Youngstown, Warren, Columbiana, Ohio.

Kindervelt Gala Nov. 7, Kindervelt Markt Nov. 8

Loveland Kindervelt Craft Show Raising Money for Childhood Asthma Research

LOVELAND, OHIO - On Saturday, November 8, Kindervelt will host the 33rd annual Kinderklaus Markt, “One of the region’s most exciting charitable holiday craft shows,” said Linda Lunceford, chairwoman of the event. It will be at the new Receptions Conference Center at 10681 Loveland-Madeira Road in the Loveland/Symmes Township business corridor.

Local 12 News anchor Kit Andrews is the honorary chairwoman. "She'll officially open the event with a ribbon-cutting at 9:30 AM," said Loveland resident Valarie Kincaid.

Kindervelt, a registered not-for-profit group that raises money for Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, is donating all proceeds from this year's Kinderklaus Markt to the hospital's Division of Asthma Research.

The show runs 9:30 AM – 3 PM. Admission is $5 and seniors age 65 and older get free admission.

"We're excited to be one of the first major events coming to the Receptions Conference Center (map) on Loveland-Madeira Road. This is a family-friendly event and we're inviting everyone in Loveland, and Miami and Symmes Townships to join us that day in raising money for Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center," said Lunceford.

This year’s Kinderklaus Markt is themed “Bright with Promise.” Hundreds of shoppers from throughout the Tri-State are expected for this charitable sale. They will browse through an expected 5,000 Christmas and Thanksgiving crafts, handcrafted jewelry, purses, kitchenwares and other items, along with thousands of delicious cookies, pies, brownies, and cakes. The Kinderklaus Markt Bakery also offers gourmet soup, dip, and spice mixes that make great holiday gifts.

Lunceford said, “The event also includes dozens of fully-decorated Christmas trees and gorgeous holiday wreaths that are available for bid.” Several raffles will also be offered.

This year Kindervelt is also offering an online charitable auction that's affiliated with Kinderklaus Markt. Shoppers can visit www.kindervelt.cmarket.com to see dozens of items, including several autographed pieces of Cincinnati Reds memorabilia.

The prior evening (Friday, Nov. 7) marks the annual Kindervelt Gala, a wonderful night of food, music, plus a live and silent auction. All proceeds from the Kindervelt Gala are also donated to the Division of Asthma Research at Cincinnati Children's. This event will also be held at Receptions Conference Center. Gala tickets are $45 and must be purchased in advance. For more details on these events or to purchase tickets, visit www.kindervelt.org.

Kindervelt has raised more than $13 million since 1971 for Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.

In mid-2008, Kindervelt concluded its four-year commitment to raising money for the hospital's Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. Kindervelt leaders announced that the organization was embarking on a new commitment to raise money for the Division of Asthma Research from now until mid-2011.

The Division of Asthma Research at CCHMC recently released the following information on this chronic disease:

• Asthma is the most common childhood chronic disease in Ohio.
• There were nearly 3,000 emergency room visits for asthma at Cincinnati Children's Hospital last year.
• Two-thirds of all children diagnosed with asthma reported suffering at least one asthma attack in the last year.
• There is a high prevalence of allergic disease (40%-70%) in Cincinnati.

Kindervelt has 1,100 members in Greater Cincinnati, including two local chapters in Loveland. “Our volunteers work year round raising funds for Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. This event is our largest citywide fundraiser for the hospital,” said Kincaid.

Healthy Partridge putting up big numbers - Sports

Loveland Graduate caught six passes for 73 yards and a touchdown last week against Miami.

Corey Partridge currently leads the Falcon football team in receptions, reception yards, punt return yards, has caught four touchdowns and ranks in the top 10 of the Mid-American Conference in catches per game. Read on...Healthy Partridge putting up big numbers - Sports.

Thank you Victoria Wulsin

I'm writing to thank you publicly for your visit to the Fairways at O'Bannon Creek subdivision on Thursday October 23. I found your honesty refreshing and was excited about your ideas and proposals to help bring a positive change to Ohio and our country. In particular, I thought your willingness to cross party lines and work with people from either party especially valuable given the extreme partisanship that has developed in recent years. Your common-sense approach to solving problems is clearly sensible in these financially troubled times.

It was good to meet an honest down to Earth person running for Congress that truly listens to and talks with people in the community. You heard our concerns and took our comments to heart.  Thank you again. You have my vote.

Bonnie McNett
Clubside Drive
Loveland OHIO

Area artist creates awareness for organ donation.

LOVELAND, OHIO - Artist Monica Anne Achberger, is Celebrating the ten-year anniversary of her Kidney Transplant by opening a new studio and hosting a benefit for the Kidney Foundation of Cincinnati and Life Center Organ Donor Network .

 The open house is Saturday November 8 from 4 to 10:00 PM at Studio #207 at Loveland Art Studios on Main at 529 Main Ave.  "I am very excited that both organizations will be represented that evening. I am planning to raise awareness about organ donation and hope to raise some funds for the organizations too," said  Achberger.  The event is open to the public and parking is free. (map)

A donation of all sales will go to both foundations.

Monca earned a Bachelors Degree in Fine Art from Columbus College of Art and Design.  She said that she has always found a way to express her inner artist." After sixteen years as a graphic designer, she began designing jewery, she painted in a variety of mediums, and perfected her skills in costume and garden design.

Achberger says that perhaps her need for creative expression comes from her knowledge that "life is fragile and not to be taken for granted." For most of her life, she lived with life-threating, kidney disease.  In 1998, she underwent a successful kidney transplant, receiving a kidney from her husband, John.

During Monica's recovery she returned to her true passion - oil painting - which she has embraced enthusiatically. In the decade since, Achberger has participated in numerous shows and competitions, inspiring others to pursue their dreams despite life's challenges.

To view samples of Achberger's work click here.

For more information please contact Monica Achberger 513-379-8778.

East Kemper finally open

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO - William W. Brayshaw, the Hamilton County Engineer, has announced that East Kemper Road between Loveland Madeira Road and Twightwee in Symmes Township has reopened to thru traffic.

Price Road to close November 10 - 28

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OHIO - The Clermont County Engineer’s Office is closing Price Road between I-275 and Bramblewood Drive, effective Monday, November 10. The closing is for work on the Bramblewood Sanitary Sewer Project. The work should be completed by Friday, November 28. Posted detours will reroute traffic along Ibold Road, Wards Corner Road, and Loveland-Miamiville Road. For more information about the closure, contact the Clermont County Engineer’s Office at (513) 732-8857.