Loveland Magazine

“Memorial Celebrations” for Dr. Ray Bauer

Milford High School principal died suddenly on Saturday

The details are confirmed now for “Memorial Celebrations” for Dr. Ray Bauer, as well as a scholarship fund in his name. The Milford High School principal died suddenly on Saturday. The community will have an opportunity to celebrate his life and remember him with a scholarship fund.

The Bauer family and Milford students have plans for two “Memorial Celebrations” for Dr. Bauer. Both events are celebrations of Dr. Bauer's life and not memorial services or a funeral service.

On Thursday evening, the students are planning a Memorial Celebration that will start at 7:00 p.m. at the Milford High School football stadium with a social/picnic “bring your own food” time. There will be some activities taking place at the stadium during the social time. Details of those activities will be released soon. A more formal service will take place at 8:30 p.m. at the stadium. The Bauer family will be there and Dr. Bauer’s family members are looking forward to meeting with the Milford/Miami Township community.

The Bauer family confirmed the details for a visitation set for Saturday, September 5 at the Faith United Methodist Church. It is located at 8230 Cox Road in West Chester, Ohio 45069. The visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. and end at 11: a.m. A Celebration Memorial Service will be held from 11-12 at the church. Read on...

Career Transitioning Ministry: Fall Networking Event

All Are Welcome!

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.

Meetings are held on Tuesdays from 7-8:30 PM. Thy meet at Epiphany UMC (6635 Loveland Miamiville Rd., or River Hills CC (6300 Price Rd.).

Career Transitioning Ministry meeting is a Fall Networking Event held on September 1st at Epiphany UMC. (Directions)

The public is invited to attend. You can bring business cards, resumes and marketing plans to share with the new connections you will make

Loveland High School Student was Diagnosed as Having Influenza

Friday afternoon, we learned that a Loveland High School student was diagnosed as having influenza, presumed to be H1N1. In consulting with the Hamilton County Health District officials, they have confirmed that cases throughout our geographical area are being reported. Our health professionals have met with the entire staff to outline the action steps we must take at school to minimize the spread of influenza. We are continuing to follow guidance provided by the Health District and the Center for Disease Control. This extensive information can be found at www.flu.gov.

READ FULL THE LETTER SENT TO PARENTS

Read the District's pandemic flu response plan.

Justin Becker and Zac Moore Lead Union College Cycling

BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Union College head coach Chuck Coffey believes this season's edition of the Bulldog cycling team promises to be the program's strongest squad in its 12-year history.

Justin Becker from Loveland, Ohio returns to the team and was a NCCA All-American in 2002 and 2003 as well as a member of Union's 2002 NCCA National Championship squad.

Union returns four riders that finished in the Top-21 at last year's NCCA National Championship Men's Cross Country event. In addition, Union has four riders returning with six NCCA Ominum All-American honors between them

Also adding to the squad is senior Zac Moore (Loveland, Ohio). He has been a four-year member of the squad and provided numerous Top-20 finishes last season.  Read on...

Correction: Christine M. Olsen Address

It was incorrectly reported that Loveland School Board Candidate Christine M. Olsen lives in Miami Township. She lives in Symmes Township.

Little Miami Rises to Top With Report Card

Little Miami now rated Excellent With Distinction. Download Little miami report card

Saturday Morning Cooking Camp for Children

Saturday, September 5th, 9 - 11 AM

Granny's Garden School will have Saturday morning cooking classes for children, led by French home cook, Brigitte Cordier. The focus of the camp is on harvesting and cooking produce from the gardens.  Roberta Paolo said, "We offer the children the opportunity to learn from hands on experiences."  The camper to adult ratio is six  campers to one adult leader. "This allows us to offer meaningful learning experiences so the children come away with skills they can use the rest of their lives."

All of our camps take place entirely outdoors. Part of our mission is getting kids outdoors. Parents and grandparents are welcome to accompany their child at no extra charge.

The registration fee is $20 for one child and $10 for each additional child from the same family.  Register

Grailville Offers Fall Poetry Workshops for Women

Grailville Retreat and Program Center is offering The Practice of Poetry: A Writing Workshop for women interested in writing as a Spiritual and Creative Practice. Bi-weekly workshops will be held Thursday evenings, September 10 – November 5, from 7 - 9 PM. Optional craft workshops are also available on alternate Thursdays, 7-8:30 PM. "This series will provide opportunities for using creative writing as a tool to listen deeply to your own heart’s wisdom," said Grailville co-director and poet Pauletta Hansel. Bi-weekly sessions provide opportunities for writing and sharing with other women as well as guidance in the art and craft of poetry. The optional Poetry Craft Sessions are opportunities to give and receive constructive feedback on poems.
 
The sessions are led by Hansel, the author of two collections of poetry, Divining (WovenWord Press) and First Person (Dos Madres Press), The Practice of Poetry helps us find new meaning in our experiences, and make room for both inspiration and careful discernment in our spiritual and creative lives. Past participants in Grailville’s Practice of Poetry Workshops have said:

• The experience helped me to access a voice inside and to begin to trust myself.
• This class has completely opened me to a way to connect deeply to the divine within me. All of my life I have searched for a way to speak my truth and because of this class, I have found a way to do that.
• The combination of structure and informality was the right mix for me to become more creative.

Grailville is located at 932 O’Bannonville Road, just outside of Loveland Ohio. Tuition is $110 for the bi-weekly series. Tuition for the series as a weekly program is $170. Limited scholarships may be available. For information or to register contact 513-683-2340

Grailville is a center of The Grail, an international movement of women committed to spiritual search, social actions, ecological sustainability and the release of women’s creative energy throughout the world. Located on 300 acres of woodlands, pastures and organic gardens, Grailville is a diverse community offering spiritual, cultural and educational opportunities for the public, as well as providing guest facilities for meetings, lodging and dining. The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.

Clermont County DARE Golf Outing is Sept. 21

A golf outing to benefit the Clermont County Drug and Alcohol Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program will be Monday, Sept. 21 at Legendary Run Golf Course in Pierce Township.
 
The outing, which also benefits the Lt. Robert Evans Memorial Scholarship fund, still has some spots open for golfers and sponsors, said Gene Bishop, a volunteer organizer of the event. Online registration can be made at www.MiamiTwpOH.gov and clicking on the D.A.R.E. Outing Golf Link.
 
Individual golfers can play golf and have dinner provided by Montgomery Inn for $90. A foursome will cost $360. The fee includes the use of the driving range, a golf cart, door prizes, too. Businesses can also sponsor individual holes on the golf course for $100.
 
The event is co-sponsored by the Clermont County Citizens’ Law Enforcement Association and the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office. Proceeds are used for training supplies and materials for the D.A.R.E. classes taught by Clermont County police departments. To purchase a spot in the outing or to sponsor the event, contact Bishop at 225-5334.

New Use for Batavia Ford Plant One Step Closer to Reality

CLERMONT COUNTUY, OHIO - The Board of Clermont County Commissioners (BCC) has approved a resolution that will help secure financing for the private acquisition of the former Batavia Ford Plant. This is the first in a series of approvals necessary for the proposed issuance of $6,125,000 Ohio Enterprise Bond Funds by the Ohio Department of Development.  The bonds, anticipated to be sold in November, would finance the acquisition and renovation of the former Ford plant in Batavia Township by Industrial Realty Group (IRG); the site consists of a 1.8 million square foot building on 230 acres.

IRG’s proposed acquisition of the facility is based on its unique size, excellent utility infrastructure, and environmentally clean status; IRG owns over 50 million square feet of industrial and military space in other parts of Ohio and across the country.  The Batavia Township facility will be marketed to large users looking at multiple regions or states to establish new operations.  These factors, along with IRG’s proven record in attracting new investment to its other properties, were instrumental in the BCC decision to provide financial support to move this project forward.

“This is a significant move forward for Clermont County,” said Clermont Board of Commissioners President Ed Humphrey.  “There is no other space of this size and quality available in the Greater Cincinnati region at this price point, making it a significant asset to the county’s economic development portfolio.  We are confident that this property will be well positioned for a viable future that will bring new jobs to Clermont County.”  

The Ford plant closed in 2008 idling over 1,700 workers.

The Band of Brother's Helmet

In the history corner, an amazing story of a Band of Brothers helmet that belonged to a Clermont County man that turned up in England, and the journey home for its new owner to meet the sister of Howard Webb. Historian Gary Knepp introduces Clermont County Today host Kathryn Lehr to the pair as they exchange information about a soldier's last mission.

Hamilton County offers Residents an opportunity to view a Bengals Game from a Suite…

Register for Free Bengals Suite Tickets

As the Cincinnati Bengals begin their 2009 pre-season schedule, Hamilton County residents are being offered an opportunity to watch the Bengals play at Paul Brown Stadium from the Hamilton County’s suite. Beginning today, Hamilton County residents can register to receive two (2) tickets by applying on-line at www.HamiltonCountyOhio.gov or by sending a postcard entry that includes their name, address and phone number to:

        Bengals Drawings
        c/o Hamilton County Board of Commissioners
        138 East Court Street, Room 603
        Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

The Hamilton County suite accommodates sixteen (16) people.  For each game, eight (8) lucky winners will be drawn and be allowed to invite one (1) guest to accompany them to the game. The winners and their guests will be provided with food and soft drinks while in the county suite. 

Drawings will be held throughout the season. Immediately following the Commissioners’ public meeting, the first drawing will be held on Wednesday September 16 for the September 27 game; the second drawing will be held October 14 for the October 25 game; the third drawing will be held October 28 for the November 8 game and the fourth drawing will be held November 18, 2009 for the November 29 game. In addition to this opportunity being offered to Hamilton County residents, the County also offers the suite to groups such as foster families and veteran organizations.

This drawing is open to Hamilton County residents only. One entry per resident is accepted. The winners must respond within 48 hours following the drawing.

Citizens for Your Library’s Future Announces Chairs for Campaign to Pass Library Levy

CINCINNATI, OHIO - Co-chairs for the upcoming Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County issue on the November 3rd ballot have been announced. The Citizens for Your Library’s Future, an independent, grassroots organization working to educate voters about the need to pass the Public Library Levy, tapped the following community leaders to serve as campaign chairs.

• William J. Moran, Senior Vice President, Corporate Facilities, Fifth Third Bank—Campaign Chair
• Hon. Sarah Anness Evans, Mayor, City of Madeira
• Hon. Mark L. Mallory, Mayor, City of Cincinnati
• H. C. Buck Niehoff, Attorney, Peck, Shaffer & Williams
• Susan Pichler, Community Volunteer
• Ed Rigaud, President & CEO of EnovaPremier, LLC
• Gwen L. Robinson, President & CEO of the Cincinnati-Hamilton County Community Action Agency
• Allen Zaring IV, Chair of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County Library Foundation

“The dollars generated by this levy are critical to the vital work of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County,” said Chairman Bill Moran. “Without it, the Library will be forced to permanently close up to 20 neighborhood branches, layoff 250 more staff, drastically cut hours, reduce computer availability, slash the purchase of new books, and eliminate services at a time when demand is at record highs.”

Funding from the 1 mill levy will ensure the Library’s doors are open and services are available for thousands of individuals who rely on the Library system every day for important services such as job placement, homework help, children's programming, and at home services for the homebound and elderly. At this millage rate, the owner of a $100,000 home would be asked to pay $2.50 a month.

Fading Pensions

by Jon Parker

Employer-sponsored retirement benefits, along with other employee perks, are experiencing tough times. The traditional, defined benefit pension plan is facing extinction, leaving more workers to fend (and fund) for themselves to provide for their retirement. The decline can be blamed in part on the Pension Protection Act of 2006, which introduced tougher guidelines to strengthen pension funding rules and improve transparency and accountability. The PPA was created with good intentions; however, the new guidelines also put pressure on employers to build pension funding at a time when coffers have been dwindling.

The fact is, pension plan retirement income, generously calculated based on years of service and attained earnings and adjusted to account for the cost of living, is simply too expensive for most businesses to maintain. The increased requirements around pension plan funding combined with a brutal stock market, shrinking profits and stockholder demand have created an extremely unfavorable environment for the continuation of employer-funded retirement plans.

How bad is it? According to a recent study by Watson Wyatt, the majority of current Fortune 100 companies no longer provide a traditional pension plan to new employees, opting instead to offer 401(k) plans to help employees save for retirement1. And even 401(k) plans are shrinking. With the recent recession, many employers have discontinued the practice of providing a company match contribution for 401(k) plans they offer. However, some employees are concerned about putting all their retirement eggs in the stock market, given the recent depreciation of stock values.

If your employer does offer a pension plan and you are concerned about your company’s future, you do have some protection. The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) was created under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to function as America’s pension insurance program. Funded by employer premiums, the PBGC helps to protect American workers by encouraging the continuation and maintenance of private-sector defined benefit pension plans. The question is, will the PBGC hold up under the weight of excessive claims?

The PBGC covers almost one and a half million Americans whose employers have gone out of business. The recent demise of Circuit City provides an example: 21,000 former workers and retirees of the nationwide electronics retailer based out of Richmond, Va., will receive their pension benefit even after the company’s bankruptcy and liquidation, thanks to the PBGC2.  Fortunately, according to current calculations, the PBGC can manage the current burden of claims, but it will have to address a projected shortfall in the future3.

There are limitations on PBGC guarantees. If you have a sizable pension, a good portion of it may not be protected. For plans terminating in 2009, the maximum guaranteed monthly benefit for a 65-year old is $4,050 for a joint payout and 50 percent for a survivor payout.

Jobs in the public sector are noted for their generous retirement plans, but PBGC does not cover state and local pension plans. Testimony before the Joint Economic Committee indicates most states have sufficient assets available to fund their liabilities right now, and those that are struggling may still have sufficient time to recover and maintain their obligations for the future4.     

If we can’t count on a pension plan or our 401(k), there’s always Social Security, right? For the time being, anyway. The Social Security Administration has reassured the public that Social Security is funded sufficiently to provide full benefits through 2037. However, unless changes are made, Social Security benefits will be reduced by 24 percent or more beginning in 2038, creating another compelling reason to take charge of your own retirement savings5.

What can you do to improve your financial position heading into retirement? First and foremost, consult an expert in money matters. A financial advisor can help you evaluate your personal financial situation and identify appropriate retirement strategies, including how to deal with disappearing pension funds. Another helpful step is to contribute to your retirement savings plan that is offered at work, even if your employer no longer offers a company match. The discipline of regular investing and the benefit from compounding savings can work in your favor. Look for ways to diversify your income, savings and investments and reduce your expenses so you are better prepared to live on less. As you continue to save, also consider insurance and investment products to help reduce risk. Market volatility is real, but history has shown us markets do rebound in time.

Jon D. Parker is a Financial Advisor with Ameriprise Financial, Inc. in Milford, Ohio.

"This communication is published in the United States for residents of Ohio and Kentucky only; and this advisor is licensed only in the states of Ohio and Kentucky."

1 Majority of Fortune 100 Companies Offer Only Defined Contribution Plans to New Salaried Employees, Watson Wyatt Analysis Finds, watsonwyatt.com, May 11, 2009.
2  PBGC Assumes Circuit City Retirement Plan, PBGC.gov, May 27, 2009.
3 U.S. Insurer of Pensions Sees Flood of Red Ink, nytimes.com, May 20, 2009.
4 State and Local Government Pension Plans: Current Structure and Funded Status, Statement of Barbara D. Bovberg, Director of Education, Workforce, and Income Security, United States Government Accountability Office, July 10, 2008.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Social Security’s Future, ssa.gov, May 11, 2009.

Local Hopefuls in November Election

Below is a summary of candidates and issues that will appear on local election ballots November 3.

LOVELAND CITY COUNCIL

Four citizens are competing only for bragging right of being the top vote getter in the Loveland City Council race, applying to run for four open seats for the 4-year term.

• Dave Bednar, 515 Lowell Street (Incumbent)
• Linda Cox, 244 E. Loveland Avenue
• Robert H. Weisgerber, 240 E. Loveland Avenue (Incumbent)
• Brent Zuch, 1718 Pheasant Hills Drive (Appointed Incumbent)

Current Member Joe Schickel did not file for re-election

LOVELAND BOARD OF EDUCATION

Three to be elected to a 4-year term.

• Katie Bontrager 847 Travis Court, Miami Township
• Michael J. Lubes 11970 Antietam Drive, Symmes Township
• Christine M. Olsen, 11317 Donwiddle Drive, Miami Symmes Township (Incumbent)
• Linda Pennington, 111 N. Lebanon Road, Loveland (Incumbent)

Current Member Dr. Judy McClanahan did not file for re-election

SYMMES TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES

Two to be elected to a 4-year term.

• Ken Bryant 8690 Calumet Way (Incumbent)
• Jodie L. Leis 12163 Waters Edge
• Kathryn Wagner. 9050 Symmesview Ct. (Incumbent)

GOSHEN BOARD OF EDUCATION

Three seats up for election for 4-year terms.

• John Gray (Incumbent)
• Tom Bixler
• John Benthien
• Sue Steele (Incumbent)

GOSHEN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

Six are running for two, 4-year terms.

• T. J. Corcoran (Incumbent)
• Bob Hausermann
• Charles Stokes
• Ray Autenrieb
• Thomas Risk
• Charles Stokes

Incumbent Mike Keeley is not running for re-election.

MIAMI TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

Two open seats for 4-year terms.

• Karl B. Schultz (Appointed Incumbent)
• Mary Wolff (Incumbent)
• Mark Keitel
• Michael Collins

MILFORD CITY COUNCIL

Three 4-year terms are open.

• Laurie Walter
• Amy L. Brewer (Incumbent)
• Mark Rohrig
• Carmella Fugate

Sam Pschesang and Kim McBeath are not seeking re-election.

(Mayor David Hunter has submitted his resignation – A replacement for his remaining council term will will be appointed by City Council within 30 days.)

MILFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION

Three, 4-year terms

• Andrea R. Brady
• Don Hartley (Incumbent)
• Deborah Widder Marques (Incumbent)
• Robert D. Hewlett
• David E. Yockey (Incumbent)

LITTLE MIAMI BOARD OF EDUCATION

Two open seats, for 4-year terms.

• Stephanie Black, 6409 Lundy Whitacre Rd., Morrow
• Bobbie Grice, 5493 Brant Rd., Morrow (Incumbent)
• Herb Mayer, 9393 E US 22 & 3, Clarksville

Incumbent John Stern is not running for re-election.

MAINVILLE VILLAGE COUNCIL

No contest here, except for bragging rights. Four seats – 4-year terms.

• Tony Dickman, 601 Fox Chase Way (Incumbent)
• Douglas L. Drook, 8124 Mulberry St. (Incumbent)
• Linda J. Humphries, 8248 S St Rt 48
• Larry Jebsen, 504 Fawn Ct. (Incumbent)

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

Two to be elected to a 4-year term.

• Baston Clyde 8073 Faller Rd Maineville
• Becky Ehling, 5465 Zoar Rd., Morrow, (Incumbent)
• David Lipson, 8898 S St Rt 48, Loveland
• Mike Toller, 8527 Morrow Cozaddale Rd., Morrow
• Terry Tranter, 5839 Eagle Creek Ct., Maineville
• Kurt Weber, 235 Saddle Creek Ln., Maineville

Incumbent MIchael Munoz is not running for re-election.

DEERFEILD TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

Two, 4-year seats open.

• Daniel J. Corey 2558 Arborwood Dr. (Incumbent)
• Tim Hershner 8576 Lake Chetac Dr.
• Joe Mettey 4070 Townsley Dr.
• Jim Rinehart 4576 Woodland Dr.
• Chris Romano 7818 Woodside Ct. (Incumbent)
• Lee Speidel 7205 Kings Mills Rd.

STATE ISSUES

• Proposed Constitutional Amendment - Compensation to Veterans of the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts
• Proposed Constitutional Amendment - Create Livestock Care Standards Board
• Proposed Constitutional Amendment - Casino Gambling.

HAMILTON COUNTY ISSUES

• Tax Levy - Add - .34ml - 5yr - Family Services & Treatment Programs
• Tax Levy - Ren & Inc - 4.13ml - 5yr - Developmental Disabilities
• Tax Levy - Ren & Dec - .18ml - 5yr - Museum Center
• Tax Levy - Add - 1ml - 5yr - COE & Capital Improvements Public Library

SYMMES TOWNSHIP ISSUES

• Tax Levy- If passed, this l.0 mill levy will replace the expiring 1.2 mill park levy beginning in 2010.
• Proposed Electric Aggregation*
• Proposed Natural Gas Aggregation*

*Gas & Electric Aggregation Levies - These levies, if passed and implemented, will give the Trustees buying power to negotiate lower rates for the residents' natural gas and electric costs. (For more information, please log onto www.naturalgas-electric.com/aggregation.asp.)

LITTLE MIAMI SCHOOL LEVY

The Little Miami school board has placed a 7.95-mill incremental property tax for 5 years on the November 2009 ballot. The incremental levy request would ask for a smaller-than-needed amount from voters the first year with additional amounts of millage added in later years of the levy request.

MAINVILLE ISSUE

Maineville officials have placed a ballot issue on the November 2009 General Election seeking voter approval to pursue an opt-out natural gas aggregation program.

Grailville Celebrates It's 65th Anniversary...and You are Invited to the Party!

By Elizabeth Murphy

We have all probably heard of Grailville, and many of us have been to events or retreats there, but did you know that Grailville is celebrating it’s 65^th Anniversary? 

Sixty-five years ago a group of women, members of an organization called The Grail, came to Cincinnati after several years of searching for a place to settle in the United States.  “Our requirements were absolutely daunting,” says Janet Kalven who came from Chicago, it’s wartime, a real farm, with city water, with enough buildings to put up 50 people right away, within walking distance of a railroad station.”   The young women were resourceful, determined and had the help of Archbishop McNicholas of the Cincinnati Archdiocese.  He lent them his real estate agent, (providing good advice and encouragementas well).  One day while driving out through the Loveland area they saw a beautiful Victorian house and surrounding buildings – it was perfect but it was not for sale.  It was vacant however and where there is a will there is a way – the women of the Grail were able to purchase this estate from the Stearns family and began to move in.  Eventually they also purchased additional adjoining farmland and today there are approximately 300 acres in what we know as Grailville.

The Grail at Grailville has mostly been a quiet neighbor, but their good works in the community both in the Cincinnati region and beyond are many.  Today Grailville offers a number of programs related to personal development, spiritual search, ecological sustainability and social justice.  They also provide a place, an oasis if you will, for other groups and individuals to come and stay and use the beautiful peaceful spaces for their own meetings, retreats or seminars.

This September 20^th Grailville is hosting a special event. “Shake the Hand that Feeds You” –  this is an opportunity for all of us who care for Grailville to support it, while enjoying an afternoon and evening of mini-programs, entertainment, wine tasting and a fine dinner.    Tickets are $65 each ($40 tax deductible). Reservations are required. Call 513-683-2340. Or go to www.Grailville.org.  If you cannot attend but wish to support Grailville ask about opportunities to be a sponsor.

If you would like to learn more about the fascinating early years of the Grail women at Grailville be sure to come to Grailville’s 65^th birthday party and see the premier of a documentary by Elizabeth Murphy and Elizabeth Robinson, “The Grail at Grailville - The Early Years”. 

State News

Women in Ohio falling behind

Study shows state lags others in pay, health, education

Teen drivers going too fast in 58 percent of crashes

One teen died per hour in weekend crashes and almost one every two hours on weekdays in 2006.

Milford Rated Excellent With Distinction

The Milford School District is rated Excellent with Distinction by the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) on the Local Report Card. ODE added this rating to the accountability program last year. This is the first time the state rated Milford as Excellent with Distinction. Read on, and download individual Building Report Cards...

Vets Encouraged to Sign Up for Health Benefits at Mobile Clinic

CLERMONT COUNTY, OHIO - As part of the second annual Southwest Ohio Veterans Bike Show, the Veterans Administration mobile health clinic invites local veterans to sign up for health benefits.  The mobile clinic will be at the bike show, held at the Clermont County Fairgrounds in Owensville, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 29, and on Sunday, August 30.

“As part of our outreach efforts, I’d like to encourage all of our local veterans who have never applied for health benefits to visit the mobile clinic this weekend,” said Clermont Veterans’ Services Director Dan Bare.  “Unfortunately, there are probably quite a few vets out there who are eligible for services they are not aware of; we’ve got to spread the word.”

The bike show is sponsored by the Vietnam Veterans of America Clermont County Chapter 649, with proceeds going to benefit homeless and at risk veterans, and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.  The show will feature competitions for a variety of motorcycle classes, including vintage, bagger, and show bikes; there will also be a ladies class.  The event also features food, live music, and door prizes.

The Southwest Ohio Veterans Bike Show will run from 10 AM Saturday through 5 PM on Sunday (August 29-30) with overnight camping spaces available.  For more information, contact Ron Miller at (513) 831-6018.

Loveland City Schools Again Receive Highest State Rating

Loveland City School District has earned the Excellent rating on the state report card from the Ohio Department of Education for nine straight years. We are proud to announce that for the second consecutive year, the District has achieved an "Excellent with Distinction" rating. This new rating, which began last year, is the highest state rating based on the achievement and progress of students.

Read on... via www.lovelandschools.org

Download 2009 Report Card

Win a Ruthven Print or a Big Screen HD TV!

You can spend a fun evening bidding on a wide range of items including a primitive wash stand, Bentwood rocker, child’s desk from an early Milford school, and a limited edition Ruthven print at the annual Art, Antiques, and Collectibles Auction, sponsored by Clermont Senior Services.  The event will be held on Friday, September 11, at Receptions-Eastgate, located at 4450 Eastgate Boulevard in Union Township.  The silent auction and appetizers begins at 5 PM, dinner is at 7 PM., and the live auction kicks off at 8 PM., just as the frenzied silent auction bidding winds up.

“The silent auction gets pretty crazy,” said Connie Landock, Clermont Seniors development assistant.  “Everyone is trying to outbid each other as the tables close.”

“This is a really fun event and a great way to support the many programs offered by Clermont Senior Services,” said Clermont Seniors Development Director Debbie Siegroth.

The cost to attend is $40 a person for appetizers, dinner, and the live and silent auctions.   Raffle tickets will be sold to win items, such as a 32-inch LCD HD television, a three-day vacation at a Lake Cumberland resort, a limited edition signed nature print by artist David Atkins, and several $100 gas cards.  You do not have to attend the event to purchase raffle tickets.

For more information on the auction, to donate an item, make a reservation, or buy a raffle ticket, call Connie at Clermont Senior Services, (513) 536-4021.

Pictured above: Volunteers Sarah Wilson of Batavia and Barbara Burke of Milford are busy organizing hundreds of auction items.

P&G sells Mason-based prescription drug business

Procter & Gamble has sold its prescription drug business to drug maker Warner Chilcott for $3.1 billion, company officials said today. Read on...

Drug maker reported to take over P&G division

Drug maker Warner Chilcott PLC could announce a $3 billion takeover of Procter & Gamble Co.’s prescription drug business as early as Monday, The Wall Street Journal has reported, citing unidentified people familiar with the deal. The pharmaceutical division, which is based in Mason, has more than 2,500 employees worldwide. The company employs about 520 pharmaceutical employees in Mason; it has a total of 2,100 employees in its Mason facilities.  Read on...

Cole Schlesner Headed Back to School

 

Steve Plitt says Thanks for Helping Raise Money at

Play For 4 Golf and Social Outing

by David Miller

LOVELAND, OHIO – Plans are that Cole Schlesner, who was severely injured this spring playing baseball is heading back to school next week as a Freshman at Loveland High School. His mother, Wendy said, “He will attend school from 9 AM -1 PM for now. He is very excited and so are his parents. We can't believe that three months ago he was lying in the ICU, and now he will be going to school. He has worked very hard to get to this point, but he still has a long road ahead.”

On Sunday, May 17th Cole was pitching at a baseball field in Loveland and was struck in the head by a line drive. He was air-lifted to Cincinnati Children's Hospital and immediately had surgery to relieve the increased pressure from his skull. Cole spent forty-seven days in the hospital.

Wendy Schlesner said that to celebrate his success this far, the Cincinnati Red's invited Cole to visit the team for batting practice on August 14th. “We were all invited to join Cole on the field, but only he was able to hang out with the players.”

Last July 27, friends, supporters, and well wishers descended on the Oasis Golf and Conference Center to attend the first annual Play For 4 Golf and Social Outing. The charity golf event was held to offset medical bills and other expenses that Cole’s family will incur while he journeys through rehab. The event will be held annually  to help other young athletes around the country with neurological disorders related to sport injuries. The event was billed as a fundraiser for youth athletes who suffer, neurologic injuries, but this year it was a celebration of Cole’s progress.

Cole was transported to the golf event by the same Air Care crew that took him to the hospital when he was injured in April. Cole said he does not remember his first Air Car flight, but the second was. “Amazing and breathtaking.” He thanks everyone for following his story and supporting him. When he landed at the Oasis, he was greeted by hundreds of adults, teammates, and children cheering and waving as the helicopter flew overhead. The Loveland/Symmes Paramedics who responded to the 911 call were also there with an awaiting golf cart to escort Cole from the landing pad to inside the Golf Center, but Cole took off without them walking briskly up the hill to his awaiting fans and his party.

Wendy Schlesner, and Cole's father Scott Schlesner, worked the room inside like proud parents at a wedding, making sure they personally thanked as many people as they could throughout the evening. But, unlike at a wedding reception, this mom and dad spent much time assuring everyone that they themselves were doing OK.

Friends and relatives of the  Schlesners came from as far as Massachusetts, Texas, and Minnesota to celebrate Cole's progress.

A buffet dinner was served, and a slide show of Cole's ordeal was played from two large video screens. The best golfers were announced, and the cash prizes they were awarded were quickly donated back to the cause. Afterward, more celebrating, rock and roll, and the dance floor was open until late in the evening.

Steve Plitt who organized the fund raising event at the Oasis said, “We would like to thank everyone who sponsored, participated, donated, and volunteered.” He said that 240 golfers and over 500 adults and children attended, and more than $51,000 was raised. “The weather cooperated, and we had great day of golf, music, food, and fun.” Plitt said that the event was remarkable, and “We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we did. Cole and his family were overwhelmed with the number of people that turned out to support them.”

“Your participation in the silent auction and the raffle was tremendous. Twenty-six lucky winners walked away with raffle prizes and over 110 items were won at the silent auction,” said Plitt.

Plitt said a special thanks is owed “to all the wonderful corporate sponsors.” The sponsors were: John Morrell, IPAC Inc, Woody 2DJ, The Josh Pilot Band, LTS Leaderboard, Oasis Golf Club and Conference Center, Coca Cola, Skyline Chili, Messer Construction, Phipps Reprographics, Kenwood Dealer Group, Fister Inc, LaRosas, Champions, The Edge, Bond Furniture and Mattress Galleries, Jarvis Global Investments, Suburban Pediatrics, Towne Properties, Honeybaked Ham, Kost-USA, Cintas, Wolters Kluwer Health, Access Denied Band, Brinks and Associates, BYH Law Firm, Koch's Sporting Goods, RP Diamond Sports, Cincinnati Reds Community Fund, Prestige, Anderson Heat, Cincinnati Stix, Queen City Crush, Vitamin Water and Spring Mountain Water. 

“It took all of you to make this such a successful event,” said Plitt. “Please save the date and join us next year for the 2nd Annual Play For 4 Golf and Social Outing on Monday, July 26, 2010 at the Oasis Golf Club.”

Adam Engel to Lead Tiger Offense

LOVELAND, OHIO - The Loveland Tigers will open their regular season play on August 28 at home against Turpin. Game time is 7:30.

State News

Evangelical Lutherans to let some gays join clergy   via www.dispatch.com

OU approves tuition increase starting Jan. 4   via www.dispatch.com

A Photo of the New Turf at Tiger Stadium

The Loveland Freshman, Junior Varsity, and Varsity football teams scrimmaged Ross High School on Friday night on the newly installed turf, at Tiger Stadium.

Click the photo for a larger view.

LA Fitness at Harpers Pointe to Host Community Blood Drive

LA Fitness at Harpers Pointe is hosting a community blood drive on Monday, August 31st between the hours of 1:00 and 7:00 PM.  The Hoxworth blood mobile will be parked in the lot at 11359 Montgomery Road in Cincinnati.

Each donor will receive a coupon for a free smoothie from SMOOTHIE KING.

Maximize Your Donation:

• Bring a friend, family member or co-worker to make a blood donation.
• Maximize your blood donation by making a Double Red Cell donation.
• In addition to your regular donations, give before or after major holidays and during the winter and summer months.
• Donating frequently ensures that we have the blood we need to support our 32 area hospitals. Hoxworth encourages all donors to give every eight weeks for whole blood, sixteen weeks for double red cells and every two weeks for platelets.
• If you have either A or AB blood types, you can boost your donation by giving platelets.

How to Donate:

Donating blood is safe and easy. You must be at least 17 years old (16 with a signed parental consent) and in good health. You must weigh at least 110 pounds and bring identification to donate. It is recommended that donors eat a good meal and drink plenty of water within four hours before donating.

Call (513) 297-1139 to schedule your appointment.   Hoxworth  will give priority to donors who have scheduled an appointment. Walk-in donors are welcome and will be seen "as soon as possible."

 

Focus on Social and Emotional Health Raises Test Scores

	A new trend in public schools is helping students focus not just on math and science, but also on their feelings. John Tulenko of Learning Matters reports on how social and emotional learning is improving test scores.

PLAN AHEAD – DESIGNATE A SOBER DRIVER

LOVELAND COPS ARE CRACKING DOWN

Over the Limit. Under Arrest

by David Miller

LOVELAND, OHIO - The message is clear: if you drive impaired, you will be caught and arrested. This year, 952 Ohio law enforcement agencies including the Loveland Police Division are joining thousands of other law enforcement and highway safety agencies throughout the nation to take part in the "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest Crackdown" on impaired driving. The enforcement blitz began today and lasts through the Labor Day holiday weekend.

The Loveland Police Department says they will be out in full force beginning August 21. "Drunk driving is simply not worth the risk,: said Loveland Chief, Tim Sabransky. "Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial cost of a crash or arrest for impaired driving can be significant."

During the enforcement period, law enforcement partners have planned more than 5,700 enforcement hours, approximately 40 checkpoints and more than 1,700 hours of saturation patrols around the state. If you drive drunk, you will be caught and arrested.
 
“We are serious about saving lives and so are our partners, from law enforcement to safety advocates,” said Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Henry Guzmán. “We’ve seen a decline in alcohol-related fatalities on Ohio’s roads over the past three years and we want to make sure that trend continues, so we’re working to ensure everyone knows that drunk driving is simply not worth the risk.”
 
In 2008, 449 people died in alcohol-related crashes on Ohio’s roads (down from 473 in 2007 and 495 in 2006) and more than 8,000 people were injured. Impaired driving also continues to be a problem nationwide. Nationally, in 2007, nearly 13,000 people died in highway crashes involving a driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.

The picture for motorcycle riders is particularly bleak. Nationally, in fatal crashes in 2007, a higher percentage of motorcycle riders (27 percent) had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher than any other type of motor vehicle driver. In Ohio, in 2008, motorcycles made up the second largest vehicle group (behind passenger vehicles) in fatal crashes involving alcohol.

Sabransky said, "Our message is simple, if we catch you driving impaired, we will arrest you. No exceptions. No excuses." Sabransky urges that if you are going to consume any alcoholic beverages to have a designated driver or make other arrangements for a ride. "Don't take the risk of becoming another impaired driver statistic."