Loveland Magazine

Mophe the Clown On a Roll for Charity

by David Miller

LOVELAND, OHIO - As a clown rode up Wall Street at mid-day last Tuesday the mailman exclaimed, “Well, it’s not everyday you see a clown on a unicycle.”

I replied back, “It’s not everyday you see a clown at noon on a work day, let alone one on a unicycle.”

However, I really didn’t find it that strange. Perhaps, because I had the feeling I had seen this clown before. So, a few minutes later when he rode back down the street, I shouted, “Hey... You live in Loveland?”

It turns out that Mophe (rhymes with loaf) is from Columbus, however he said that I may have seen him before, because last spring he was in Loveland for the first time, riding in the Alzheimer Walk. In fact I had seen him that day and took photos of him, but did not get a chance to talk to him.

I did not press Mophe, and he didn’t offer, but when I asked him his name he only said,”Mophe - Mophe the Clown.” He said it is a nickname from when he was very young.

Mophe has unicycled in forty-eight states, Alaska and Hawaii are still on his list. He has unicycled in 150 cities and has put more than 26,000 miles on his car. His goal, which he reached the day before, was to ride 1,000 miles for his favorite cause - GiftCardDonor.com.

Mophe said that he so enjoyed his brief visit to Loveland last spring that he wanted to return to see, “A little more of the town.” When at the Wall Street bridge, Mophe said that he now had 1,002-1/2 miles on his unicycle’s odometer. He said he first got on a one-wheeler when he was eleven years-old, and it took him about six months to learn to ride.

By the time he was done for the day, he had 19 more miles logged. His total for the week was 94 miles.

Mophe said on his Facebook page that The Jingle Bell Run in Cincinnati is his last scheduled event --- ...”for this year!”  He says he will to try to “hammer out a book about (his) journey by the end of the year.”

Morphe is really, really passionate about people donating unused gift cards. That is why he set the goal of 1,000 miles as a way to promote re-gifting the cards. He explained how much of the money originally spent on these cards goes to waste, and just how easy it is to donate them to your favorite charity. He said, “Many gift cards are still sitting around from the last Holiday.”  He’s a hard interview as he continuously circles around you - and back and forth - and back and forth, on one wheel.

Mophe's Facebook page

Follow Mophe on Twitter

Now... Donate Those Cards

Boys Retired: Then Re-hired by District Last March

Read this background on the re-hiring of Loveland School District Superintendent Dr. Kevin Boys, last March:

Loveland Superintendent to Retire: Asks to be re-hired under new contract

Lorenz: Appreciates money saved

Dr. Kevin Boys Seeks Job at Southern State Community College

SSCC presidential search narrowed to four

Loveland City School Superindent Among Finalist

The Southern State Community College Board of Trustees has announced its four finalists for the position of president of the college.

Current president Dr. Sherry A. Stout has announced her plan to retire effective Dec. 31, 2009. Dr. Stout has served Southern State since its founding in 1975, most recently as the college’s fourth president.

From an initial pool of 63 candidates, the four finalists were narrowed via a rigorous review process that has included personal interviews, background and reference research, and evaluation of resumes and documentation.

The four finalists include:

• Dr. Kevin S. Boys, Superintendent of the Loveland City School District in Loveland, Ohio;
• Dr. Jerry C. Collins, Director of Undergraduate Studies at the University of South Florida in Tampa, Fla.;
• Dr. Lisa C. McWherter, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Tri County Technical College in Pendleton, S.C.; and
• Dr. Charles T. Terrell, Vice President of Workforce Development Services and Lifelong Learning at Virginia Western Community College in Roanoke, Va.

Southern State is inviting the finalists to Central Campus for a Nov. 30 all-day event which will include meet-the-candidate receptions, follow-up interviews with the board of trustees, and tours of Central Campus in Hillsboro and South Campus in Fincastle (candidates have previously toured North Campus in Wilmington and Fayette Campus in Washington C.H.).

During the separate meet-the-candidate receptions, members of the college faculty and staff will have an opportunity to meet and interact with each finalist.

Southern State Community College serves a five-county area including Adams, Brown, Clinton, Highland, and Fayette Counties. With either a campus (Four campuses) or training facility in all of the counties.

The College has 27 Associate Degree programs and 7 Certificate Programs. There is also a Corporate and Community Services Division of the College. This division is the workforce development, employer services, and community education outreach arm of the College.

The College is accredited by the Higher Learner Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. In addition to core curriculum, they offer: Associate Degree Nursing Program, Medical Assisting Technology Program, Practical Nursing Program, Emergency Medical Services Program, Respiratory Care Program,

The Central Campus is in Hillsboro , there is a Fayette Campus in Washington Court House, a North Campus in Wilmington, and a South Campus in Sardinia.

Boys Finalist for President of Southern State Community College

Loveland School Superintendent Dr. Kevin Boys Among 4 Finalists

Announcement May Be Made Friday

The next president of Southern State Community College could be named this week, according to Jim Ward, chairman of the college’s board of trustees.  Read on...

Christmas in Loveland

The annual Christmas in Loveland is Saturday, December 19 from 4 until 9 PM.

Loveland, Ohio 6th Grader Earns State Honor

The Ohio Association for Gifted Children (OAGC) recognized Morlan Osgood as the Ohio recipient of the 2009 Nicholas Green Distinguished Student Award at its annual conference. Morlan is a 6th grade student at Loveland Intermediate School and was nominated by her gifted education teacher, Nancy Glasgow. In her letter of recommendation, Mrs. Glasgow described Morlan as a self-motivated learner and “outgoing leader with an inner drive to try new and often challenging tasks and a great determination to see things through.”  Read on...

Horses, Carriages are Lebanon Parade's Stars

More than 130 carriages drawn by horses to take part in the 21st annual event Saturday. Read on...

Fisher-Price Recalls More Than 147,000 Drop-Side Cribs

Recall Involves More Than 2.1 Million Baby Cribs

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Stork Craft Manufacturing Inc., of British Columbia, Canada, today announced the voluntary recall of more than 2.1 million Stork Craft drop-side cribs, including about 147,000 Stork Craft drop-side cribs with the Fisher-Price logo. The recall involves approximately 1,213,000 units distributed in the United States and 968,000 units distributed in Canada.

CPSC urges parents and caregivers to immediately stop using the recalled cribs, wait for the free repair kit, and do not attempt to fix the cribs without the kit. They should find an alternative, safe sleeping environment for their baby. Consumers should contact Stork Craft to receive a free repair kit that converts the drop-side on these cribs to a fixed side.  Read on...

Little Pika Ski Club

LOVELAND, OHIO - About 5 years ago Cindy Kessler started a ski club for the purpose of getting her children and their friends a discount rate at Perfect North Slopes.  Kessler said, "I don't mind who joins the club, I just want folks to have fun with this great winter activity like we do, at a reasonable cost. We ski (actually the girls snowboard - that's the cool thing these days) on weekday evenings and have a wonderful time."

What: Little Pika is a ski club organized by Loveland resident Cindy Kessler, that offers discounted, group rates at Perfect North Slopes.  Anyone is welcome to join (membership is free). Participants are responsible for their own transportation.

Where: Perfect North Slopes, Lawrenceburg, Indiana. It’s about 45 minutes from Loveland.

When: When and how often you go, depends on the “package” you and your friends choose to buy (see other side or check out PNS’s website).  The season typically runs from late November through early March.  As long as the nights are cold enough, PNS is making snow.  They can build up a good base in a matter of days.

Eligibility: Anyone, although the minimum age for lessons is 4 years old.

Cost: There are many pass options available (see other side or go to PNS’ web site). You are free to bring your own skis/snow board and forgo the rental fees.  Children age 6 and under can buy a Gold Light pass for $50. 

 The “4-Week Lesson Program” is the least expensive package available.  You go once-a-week for 4 weeks, getting a free lesson each time. After your first 2 lessons you get one free pass. This package starts January 4, 2010.  When you buy the pass, you must select the day you will be going each week (Mon, Tues, Wed, or Thurs), so that they have the right number of teachers available.

Deadline: The deadline for the lowest prices is November 22, 2009.  You can still get a discount through Little Pika after that date, but the prices won’t be as good.

Lessons: Ski or snowboard lessons can be added to any package for $40 (they are free with the “4 Week Lesson Program”).  Children must be at least 4 years old to take lessons. 

 The “4 Week Lesson Program” lessons are offered only on weekdays, as follows:

• Beginner “Station” Lessons: From 4:00 to 6:00 lesson “stations” are offered for beginners.  Start anytime you want and move through the  stations at your own pace.
• One Hour Lessons: One hour beginner, intermediate and advanced lessons start “on the hour”, at 1:00, 6:00, 7:00 & 8:00.

Registration: Register online, by going to PNS’s website, at  HYPERLINK "http://www.perfectnorth.com" www.perfectnorth.com."

1. Click on “Club Log-in” (top right)
2. Search the ABC chart to locate “Little Pika”.
3. Type in our password:  showtime
4. Click on “Login”
5. Click on “See Available Items”. 
6. Click on the package you want and continue to follow the online instructions.
7. (Note: Your personal password is not the same as the club password.)

Pass Pick Up:    You will pick up your season pass on your first visit to PNS (at the inside ticket window).

Information: Contact Cindy Kessler at 403-1427, 683-7527, or ckessler@fuse.net.

Montessori Students Give Thanks

 

Children Donate 315 pounds of Candy

by Bonnie McNett

Children's Meeting House Montessori School recently held a candy drive for U.S. troops stationed overseas to help boost morale and to make them feel appreciated this holiday season.

The drive was a huge success delivering three hundred and fifteen pounds of candy to the Yellow Ribbon Support Center (YRSC) in Batavia.  After the delivery, the students were given a tour of the center by Keith Maupin and learned about scholarships the YRSC offers in memory of fallen soldiers and other work preformed by the center.

The Yellow Ribbon Support Center, which was started in 2004, has sent nearly fourteen thousand care packages to troops stationed in Iraq.  For more information about the YRSC visit www.yellowribbonsupportcenter.com.

Blue Ash/Montgomery Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert

KINDEL MEMORIAL HOLIDAY CONCERT
 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 at 7:30 PM

The Blue Ash/Montgomery Symphony Orchestra will present its annual Kindel Memorial Holiday Concert on the first Sunday in December.

Along with the festive sounds of Christmas, assisted by the Cincinnati Brass Band, will be a tribute to composer Bonia Shur, Director of Liturgical Arts at Hebrew Union College, whose music integrates and reflects the many diverse cultural heritages in which he has lived.

The choral tradition of the holiday season will be celebrated through the talents of the Cincinnati Choral Society and the Cincinnati Boychoir.

This concert is 7:30 PM on Sunday, December 6, at the Montgomery Assembly of God Church (7950 Pfeiffer Road)

Help a Loveland resident become Tailgate Approved

Dave Farmer says, “Help a Loveland resident become Tailgate Approved. Go to http://tinyurl.com/vote-band-o-beer and vote for my entry (Band-O-Beer, on bottom right) and I may just get a chance to go to the Super Bowl. In any case, watch the video and see Loveland mentioned. And too, please pass the word...”

Angela Bizzarri of Mason Named National Cross Country Athlete of the Year

Senior Earns Prestigious Honor for Nation's Top Distance Runner

 CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - Senior Angela Bizzarri was named the National Cross Country Athlete of the Year, announced Wednesday by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association. Bizzarri garnered the honor two days after her remarkable NCAA Championship victory where she set a school-record 6K time of 19:46.8 to beat out the other 253 runners in the field.

"It's an awesome accomplishment because there are so many great athletes in the NCAA," Bizzarri said. "To be honored as the top athlete in cross country is just awesome. It's been a great season, and I really appreciate my coaching and athletic training staff because they helped me to stay healthy and to be in the best shape for the biggest meet."

The eight-time All-American is the first Illini to earn this accolade, capping off the most outstanding cross country season of Bizzarri's impressive collegiate career. One week ago, she took home Midwest Region Athlete of the Year honors after winning the NCAA Midwest Regional Championships by almost seven seconds with a time of 20:07.5.

Along with her NCAA Midwest Regional title, the Mason, Ohio, native also took the top spot at the Pre-Nationals Invitational on Oct. 17, beating out 246 other runners in the White Race. At the Big Ten Championships on Nov. 1, the senior had the highest showing of her career at the conference meet by finishing in second place to earn first-team All-Big Ten honors for the fourth consecutive year.

Bizzarri is the first national athlete of the year from Illinois since Justin Spring captured the Nissen-Emery Award for being the nation's top senior male gymnast in 2006.

Angela Bizzarri Wins 2009 NCAA Cross Country National Title

"This was my last cross country race, and it was a perfect way to end it,"

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. - Senior Angela Bizzarri won the 2009 NCAA Cross Country national title on Monday at the LaVern Gibson Championship Course, smashing her previous personal-best set at last year's NCAA Championships by 13 seconds and finishing the 6K race with a time of 19:46. This marks the second national title for Bizzarri in less than six months, after capturing the 5,000m title at the NCAA Outdoor Championships in June. Bizzarri becomes the first Illinois women's cross country runner to ever win the NCAA cross country title, and the first Illini cross country champion since Craig Virgin took home the title in 1975.

Santa's Workshop

You can support Santa by donating new, unwrapped, ADULT gifts

The Epiphany United Methodist Church continues a Christmas tradition, Santa's Workshop, on December 12. In collaboration with the Loveland Initiative and the Elberon United Methodist Church in Lower Price Hill children are able to experience the "Joy of Giving."

Children of lower income families in the two communities of greater Loveland and Price Hill come to Epiphany where they can select Christmas gifts for their parents and grandparents, enjoy making crafts, visiting with Santa, and eating Christmas goodies. The children, guided by volunteers select the special gifts, and they are wrapped by church volunteers with fancy ribbons and bows.

Hats, gloves, t-shirts, slippers, socks, dish towels (bath and dish), can openers, watches, jewelry, wallets, bath products, tools, books, calendars, journals, appointment books, cameras and photo albums, candles, and ceramics are suggested gifts you could choose to buy and donate.

They do usually run short on "dad' gifts. Gifts should be at the church by December 11.

The children are led in groups by an Epiphany teenager to the Christmas store where they choose the gifts, and adult elves help wrap... then, to a Christmas story room, and a parlor where Santa will be waiting to hear personal requests.

Email for more information. Church Office:  513-677-9866

Grief Seminar

A one night seminar at Epiphany United Methodist Church: "Making Your Way Through Grief During the Holidays", led by Pastor Lisa Kerwin, on December 1 at 7 PM. Encouragement and helpful tips that may help s you navigate the holidays after the loss of a loveland one.

To register: Call or email Rev Lisa Kerwin at 677-9866 or lisa.k.eumc@zoomtown.com

It'll Be a "Wonderful Life" in Loveland, Ohio... Starting Dec. 4

It's a Wonderful Life

At Loveland Stage
Company Theater

A Live Radio Play
by Philip Grecian

Show Dates:

• Friday December 4, 8 PM
• Saturday December 5, 8 PM
• Sunday December 6, 3 PM
• Friday December 11, 8 PM
• Saturday December 12, 8 PM
• Sunday December 13, 3 PM

For Tickets call Theresa: 697-6769

All tickets are $10

"It's a Wonderful Life" Cast List

Dan Docherty as George Bailey
Christine Walsh as Mary Hatch-Bailey
John Wolff as Henry Potter and Clarence Oddbody
Ann Barfels as Mrs. Bailey and others
David Spitzfaden as Uncle Billy and others
Suzy Culbertson as Ruth Dakin Bailey and others
Gretchen Kessler as Violet Bick and others
JR Wills as Sam Wainwright and others
Rich Schmaltz as Bert the cop and others
Steve Link as Mr Martini and others
Karen Ballard as Mrs. Hatch and others
Deb Giehl as Mrs. Thompson and others
Kay Buckler as Mrs. Partridge and others
Matt Hall as Peter Bailey and others
Drew Docherty as Tommy Bailey and others
Sarah Cronin as Janie Bailey and others
Emma Hall as Zuzu Bailey and others

“Hamill” An Exclusive Interview with Director Oren Kaplan

Inspired by the life of Deaf UFC Fighter, Matt Hamill From Loveland, Ohio...

Hamill Tells the Story of What it Takes to be a Champion, On and Off the Mat

by Ricky Mulvey

Hamill is a coming of age drama depicting the struggles and successes of what it takes to become a champion. Raised among those with the ability to hear, Matt Hamill later finds himself no less an outsider amidst the Deaf Community. But through sheer determination, he uses his 'perceived' disability as an asset, and becomes not only the first deaf wrestler to win a National Collegiate Championship, but an inspirational force to both hearing and deaf alike.

Hamill was born deaf, so his grandfather signed him up for the elementary school wrestling team to raise his self-esteem and help him fit in the hearing world. It worked. In fact, Hamill's career has been so compelling that a production company on the campus of Rochester Institute of Technology is filming a movie about his life.

Hamill, who grew up in Loveland, Ohio, won three NCAA Division III national wrestling championships as a student at RIT. Now he's a professional fighter in the UFC — Ultimate Fighting Championship. Hamill is being portrayed by deaf actor Russell Harvard, who played the role of H.W. Plainview as an adult in the movie There Will be Blood. Susan Gibney (Crossing Jordan) has joined the cast to play Matt's Mother.

Hamill's grandfather, Loveland's legendary Stan McCoy, will be played by Raymond J. Barry (Training Day, Walk Hard, Dead Man Walking).

Loveland legend Matt Hamill is going to Hollywood. Hamill is a college champion wrestler and a UFC fighter with a record 8-2. If you are not familiar with the UFC, it is the most internationally renowned MMA (which stands for mixed martial arts) promotional company in existence. MMA is a combination of kickboxing, wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and other fighting styles which are used to either knockout or "submit" your opponent. Basically the UFC is to MMA, what the NFL is to football.
 
A biographical film is in the works about Hamill. I found out more about this movie from its director Oren Kaplan, who has directed internet sensations such as “The Lone Wolf,” “Modern Day Jesus,” and “My Alibi.” Kaplan has worked with the likes of Margaret Cho and Alison Brie (featured in Community and Mad Men.) He has also done promotional work for Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. 

Question - When will Loveland be able to see the film?

Kaplan - That’s a great question we would like to know the answer to.  We are going to try to get the film in the Tribeca Film Festival (in New York, in May), and we’ll see how that goes. Hopefully we will find a distributor, and will be able to show it in Loveland, even if it’s for just a special short term screening of just a weekend.

Q - How accurate the movie’s portrayal of Matt Hamill’s life?

K - Its incredibly accurate, the entire script is based off of multiple hour interviews that we had with him. While we were shooting Matt and some of the other character inspirations visited the set and they are very excited about the footage. Probably one of the best compliments we got was during Matt’s visit. We were shooting the college national championship wrestling scene. Matt said it felt like he was at the championship again, which is cool because we made the set from scratch.

Q - How is Loveland depicted in the movie?

K - We shot in upstate New York, which is lush, pleasant, and suburban, so we felt it was appropriate. The film will show it as a slower paced town, so whether Loveland really was a slower paced town in the 1980’s… well we took some creative license.

Q - The star of the movie Russell Harvard (who plays Matt Hamill) is deaf, what challenges did you face in directing him?

K - Well working with deaf actors was by far the most interesting part of the whole experience. I had never met a deaf person until a month before I started working on the movie. I had to learn sign language since most of our crew was deaf as well. One of the most powerful tools you have as a director is your voice. When you work with the deaf it’s all through visuals, so there is a lot of running around and displaying through actions of what you want.

A funnier moment we had when directing Russell was when we were filming a scene where Matt was running away. In the shot Russell kept on running when I yelled cut, so we had to send about half our crew down to get him to stop.

Q - Are we going to see Matt’s UFC career?

K - We actually have not shot those scenes. We weave through the movie in all the emotional turning points in a UFC fight of his. The framework of the film is the UFC part of his life, but the story is more about Matt coming out of Loveland trying to figure out who he is, and accepting the fact that he is deaf.

 (When shooting in Rochester an unseemly citizen, who has yet to be caught, stole some invaluable costumes used in the movie.)

Q - Tell me about how the theft of the costumes affected the shooting

K - We were working 16-18 hour days so by the time we were finished we were too tired to do anything but sleep. Mostly they stole prom dresses and other high school outfits. I don’t believe we were targeted as movie people, because we were in a very accessible lot. My guess is there is some crack addict in Rochester (laughs) that now owns a bunch of prom dresses.

Q - How did you come upon this story?

K - The writers Eben Kostbar and Joe McKeelheer brought me upon the story. Eben saw the Ultimate Fighter and was very excited.  Joe saw it as barbaric, but discovered the awesome people behind it and how they viewed it as a sport. A good example  of the relationships from in Mixed Martial Arts is Rich Franklin. He is a guy Matt lost to in the UFC octagon, but will make an appearance in the movie. So Eben sent Matt a message on MySpace and the film took off from there.

Q - The original star was supposed to be Eben Kostbar, why did it change to Russell Harvard?

K - Before Eben and Joe had really been exposed to deaf culture they didn’t realize the mistake they had made, but it was a very quick understanding. Deaf audiences are going to be a major fan base for us and we really want to respect them. We found Russell Harvard who’s amazing deaf or not and I do realize that’s cliché but the guy was in “There Will Be Blood”!

Q - Was this created for drama or fight fans?

K - Well I know deaf fans will be happy and for sure Matt Hamill fans will be satisfied. I think will be an equal mix of wrestling, fight, and drama fans though because there is something in the movie for all of them. The real heart of the movie is Matt Hamill’s story.

Q - What would you like the people of Loveland to know?

K - We appreciate that they have the town that made Matt Hamill. I’ve never been to Loveland, but it sounds awesome from what I have read and heard about it. Plus it’s got a great name!

Q - Are you a Mixed Martial Arts fan yourself?

K  - I wasn’t that familiar with it before this project.  I think it’s cool that that Matt brings the non-traditional fans to the sport.

Q - When will we get a preview?

K  - May 2010.

OREN KAPLAN

Oren Kaplan grew up in Israel and California. After graduating from UCLA with a degree in Computer Science and Engineering, Oren decided to take his technical skills and apply them to the arts. He began self-distributing his short films online, and quickly became a leading director in the world of New Media. He was commissioned to direct the series "Sourced Out" for Turner's SuperDeluxe network. Based on the success of that series, he was asked to direct two additional series for Turner, a series for Comcast's Ziddio website, and another series for Fremantle Media.

After several of his online videos generated millions of views and media attention, Oren was offered a full-time directing position at Disney. His first project was the ABC Family dramedy, 'My Alibi'. At Disney, he won a Telly award for a video he directed for publisher Simon & Schuster and guest-directed a Webby-nominated episode of Take180.com's 'The Juice Box' called 'The Twilight Before Christmas.' His feature film credits include 2nd Unit Directing the Lionsgate film, 'The Hamiltons', and serving as Executive Producer on the philosophical thriller, 'Godspeed'.

Scott & Wendy Schlesner Feel Extremely Fortunate This Thanksgiving

On Sunday, May 17, 2009, Cole Schlesner was on the pitchers mound in Loveland and was struck in the head by a line drive hit. As Cole was air lifted to Cincinnati Children's Hospital, the Greater Loveland community, and in fact people from all around the country, immediately stopped in their tracks to pray for his recovery. Below is a message of thanksgiving from parents, Scott and Wendy Schlesner.

I would like to humbly share a story with you that has been a tremendous help to me and my family.

by Scott Schlesner

November 17 was the six month milestone since our son was injured. We feel blessed that Cole survived, and is doing so well on his road to recovery. His Neurosurgeon recently told us that based on the severity of Cole’s traumatic brain injury, his progress thus far has been “miraculous.”

When we asked what we can expect going forward, Dr. Mangano said he’s cautiously optimistic that Cole can achieve a full and complete recovery--but there are no guarantees. Each traumatic brain injury is unique, and only time will tell how far he recovers. I want to mention that we feel extremely fortunate to have Dr. Mangano as Cole’s physician. In addition to being one of the best Pediatric Neurosurgeons on the planet, he’s an incredible human being. He has always communicated the brutal facts, but also has also provided us with hope…and that hope has kept us strong. Based on Cole’s incredible Faith, determination, and positive attitude, we believe he can achieve a full and complete recovery.

Over the past six months, I’m certain our family has experienced every conceivable emotion known to humanity. Many people have asked how we’ve been able to muster the strength to “deal with the situation.” Trust me, it hasn’t been easy. But I would like to humbly share a story with you that has been a tremendous help to me and my family.

Right after Cole was Air-Cared to Children’s Hospital for emergency brain surgery, Father Ted Albert, a minister at our church (St. Barnabus Episcopal) arrived to support us in the waiting room. During the long and tense wait, I asked Father Ted if he thought God had intended for this to happen to Cole. In summary, Father Ted explained that God doesn’t cause bad things to happen…that’s why they’re called accidents. Interestingly, he then explained that even in the midst of terrible tragedy, God will attempt to show us His love and compassion, and he encouraged me to look for it.

He was right. I’ve learned there is tremendous good (God’s love) in the world, but you must condition your mind to look for it. Conversely, if you want to find bad things to justify personal anger and sadness, you can, but it will take you down a line of negative thinking that will most likely pervade your life and make you miserable.

About a month ago I realized I had lost site of the lesson from Father Ted, and I was becoming increasingly angry. I allowed the foolish behavior of a few people towards Cole to fuel my negativity, instead of forgiving them. I prayed to God asking for his help, and He responded. The next morning over breakfast, I forced myself to “look for the good” in my day. Miraculously, I realized that for the first time, Cole was going back to school that day without a helmet, bandanna, or hat on his head. His hair had grown back, and he had started to look like a normal kid again. That was something to celebrate! However, if I hadn’t stopped to actually look for it, I’m not sure I would have seen it!

I’ve realized the way we’ve tried to “view” the world after Cole’s accident has made all the difference in how we’ve dealt with it, and ultimately, how Cole has too. Perception indeed, can become reality. Please don’t get me wrong. Our family (especially me) is far from perfect, and this experience has brought us to our knees on many occasions. We’ve felt sadness, fear, frustration, uncertainty, and even anger since Cole was injured. We’ve also learned that there IS good in the world, but you need to have the right mindset to see it.  During the last six months, there have been many kind and compassionate people who've done something special for Cole (or our family) that was completely unexpected... but very much appreciated. These random acts of kindness have made it much easier for us to see the good, and I'd like to highlight a few of the special stories:

1) "Classmates Car Wash"

Sarah Kanitz and Nicole Henderson, both Freshman classmates of Cole, independently organized a car wash for the "Play for 4" not-for-profit philanthropy. Those two, along with other volunteers, spent an entire day at LaRosa's in Loveland washing cars for donations. They raised over $750 for the charity... Thanks, Sarah and Nicole!!! You guys have been loyal friends of Cole, and you'll always have a special place in our hearts!

2) Loveland High School Football

Varsity Football Coach Andrew Marlatt has been an incredible inspiration and motivator to Cole. Even though Cole can't play football, Coach Marlatt has made him feel a special part of the team throughout the season. Coach Marlatt visited Cole in the hospital and brought him a Loveland Varsity football jersey signed by the Seniors. He then invited Cole to speak to the team before the 5th game of the season, which Cole felt honored to do.  Cole talked about his recovery process and how his challenge could be translated to football..."Nothing in life that’s worthwhile ever comes easy. To be successful, it takes commitment, a positive attitude, and effort." Coach Marlatt, you're a great role model, demonstrating that strength and compassion can go hand-in-hand. Thank you for being a great human being! Freshman Football Coach Jeremy Ward has also allowed Cole to ride the bus with the team, and be on the sideline during games...we are grateful to you,

too!

3) Miami University Baseball Team Visit

One of the players heard about Cole, and he organized a visit to our home on Nov. 5th with a dozen of the players and Head Coach Dan Simonds. They presented Cole with a signed jersey, an authentic team bat, and offered to have him throw out the 1st pitch at a game next season. While everyone involved deserves a huge thank you, I find it encouraging that a young man demonstrated the leadership, maturity and selflessness to think of Cole, a kid he had no history or relationship with. Coach Simonds obviously does a terrific job of recruiting talented players who also have tremendous character and class. Thanks, Redhawks! We look forward to seeing you in the spring!

4) "Support Cole"

Daniel Canada, Adam Engel and Kyle Miller, all Seniors at Loveland High School, organized a fundraiser for Cole. They raised over $1,200 through donations and the sale of over 150 "Support Cole" t-shirts at LHS. The students and teachers wore these bright orange shirts the first day Cole returned to school after his 2nd reconstructive surgery and three-week recovery. The group picture of everyone wearing these shirts brought tears of joy to our eyes. Daniel estimated that all in all, about half of the Student Body was involved. They used the proceeds to purchase 24 sessions with a personal fitness trainer (Steve Lakes with The Edge Training Institute) to help Cole regain the strength in his right side, which has had a deficit since his injury. To all of the LHS students, faculty and supporters, but especially Daniel, Adam and Kyle: Our family has been humbled by your kindness. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your Leadership in supporting Cole, and for your kindness and compassion. We love you all!

We hope these wonderful stories strengthen your faith in God and humanity, and prove that that there is indeed, plenty of love and goodness in this world! As we roll into the Thanksgiving, we will count the people involved in the stories above - in our blessings!

God Bless,
Scott & Wendy Schlesner

 

Put the Loveland Initiative on Your Gift List

Loveland Christmas Tradition Now in 12th Year

Terri Rogers said, "Loveland Initiative is proud once again to host the 12th Annual Christmas Toy Store. Christmas is a wonderful time of the year, especially for children. With our annual Toy Store, we make it just as wonderful for low-income parents."

Read the full story here about this Loveland Christmas tradition, now in its 12th year.

And, Download this printable shopping list to take with you as you begin your Christmas gift buying. SUGGESTED GIFT LIST

Loveland, Ohio Artist, Monica Anne Achberger Receives National Award

"Riverside Park" received the Jack Richeson Co. Award

by David Miller

LOVELAND, OHIO - Loveland artist Monica Anne Achberger's oil painting titled "Riverside Park" received the Jack Richeson Co. Award at this years 10th Annual National Juried Exhibition of the American Impressionist Society (AIS). "To be included in this prestigious and extremely high quality show is an honor in itself," said Achberger.

Only 189 pieces were accepted out of almost 650 entries. The judge for this year's exhibition was AIS Master Artist Quang Ho.

Achberger works primarily in oils. Her subjects encompass landscape, still life, figures and "dreamscapes." She has won various awards at local and national shows, and has commissioned pieces in both private and public collections. She says she often works on location, "en plein air."

Achberger said, "I am drawn to creating my personal response and interpretation of the places I have been. The uplifting emotions of my paintings mirror my positive outlook on life"

In 2005, Achberger won the First Place Award in the Cincinnati International Wine Festival National Poster Competition, and in 2004, the Peoples Choice Award at the Loveland Winter Art Show. Her work has been exhibited at the Krohn Conservatory, the Women's Art Club of Cincinnati, the University of Cincinnati Clermont College,  the Ohio State Fair Fine Art Exhibit. and the Cincinnati International Flower Show.

She maintains a studio at the Loveland Art Studios on Main Avenue in Loveland. To view more of Monica Anne's artwork visit her website. She can be contacted via e-mail.

The American Impressionist Society 10th Annual National Juried Exhibition is on display until December 1, at the Saks Galleries, Denver Colorado.

The entire exhibit is currently on-line and can be viewed through the AIS website. .

East Kemper Rd. to Close For One Day: Tuesday, December 1

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO - William W. Brayshaw, the Hamilton County Engineer, has announced that they will be performing pavement restoration on East Kemper Road at Loveland Madeira Road, for one day on Tuesday, December 1.

Any problems/questions regarding this one day closure should be directed to either Kirk Music at Hamilton County Engineer’s Eastern Maintenance Facility at: 513-946-4979 or to Pat Ashcraft at the Hamilton County Engineer’s Permit Construction Department at: 513-946-8430.

Hamilton County’s detour will be routed over Loveland Madeira Rd. to Twightwee and vice versa.

 

Kings Bus Crash Sends 17 Children to Hospitals in Warren County

An accident involving two Kings school buses sent 17 children to three area hospitals today, Nov. 24, for injuries, according to Lebanon police Sgt. Dave Gehringer. Read on...

Breakfast with Santa at Epiphany United Methodist Church

This event has been canceled for this year due to deaths in the Epiphany Church family

Breakfast with Santa at Epiphany Epiphany United Methodist Church will be Saturday, December 5th, 8:30-11:00 AM.

A pancake breakfast will be served starting at 8:30.  Santa will make an appearance and check every boy and girls Christmas list, have his picture taken with each child and provide helpers for the children to do holiday crafts.

Directions

Township Leading the Effort to Support Military Families

Deerfield First in Warren County to Sign Community Covenant Document


DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP, OHIO - The Deerfield Board of Trustees is leading the way to support military personnel and their families. The Board is the first in Warren County to sign the Community Covenant Document, a partnership between the Armed Forces and government leaders to support those who serve.

Army Reserve Ambassador Stephen Ackman presented to the Board the needs of military personnel and their families that are sometimes overlooked, especially upon return to the states. He outlined how government, business and community groups can support these families before, during and after deployment.

“By signing this document, Deerfield leads the way toward building a partnership with our military,” Ackman said.

PROCLAMATION SUPPORTING DEERFIELD RESIDENTS
WHO ARE SERVING OR HAVE SERVED IN UNITED STATES MILITARY AND DECLARING THE WEEK OF NOVEMBER 8 THROUGH 14, 2009

AS A SPECIAL WEEK OF RECOGNITION

               WHEREAS, with deep gratitude to the members of Deerfield Honors Veterans, Deerfield Township will dedicate Veterans Plaza in Cottell Park on Sunday, November 8, 2009; and

               WHEREAS, November 11, 2009 is Veterans’ Day, a day when citizens of the United States of America honor Veterans; and

               WHEREAS, Deerfield residents have served honorably in the Military Forces of the United States in every war since the Revolutionary War; and

               WHEREAS, Deerfield residents who serve in the United States Military and their families are special members of our Community;

               NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Trustees of Deerfield Township, Warren County, State of Ohio:

SECTION 1. That Deerfield Township recognizes: that America’s Military Forces and their families make a commitment to our Nation and Community every day; that the strength of our warriors comes from the strength of their families; and that the strength of  military families is supported by the strength of the Community;

SECTION 2. That Deerfield Township, by its Trustees, residents, employers, educators and civic and business leaders are committed to building a partnership to support the strength, resilience and readiness of America’s Military and their families; and

SECTION 3. That the week of November 8 through 14, 2009 is declared a special week of recognition for our Veterans and those Deerfield residents currently serving in the Military and their families.

Up-date: H1N1 vaccinations in Clermont County

“To say it is busy would be an understatement!” said Clermont County Health Commissioner Marty Lambert.  “In a typical year we provide around 1,000 seasonal flu shots to Clermont County citizens; I anticipate that we will provide up to 40,000 H1N1 vaccinations by the end of this flu season.” The Centers for Disease Control is reporting the number of flu cases is beginning to decline locally and across the state.  One H1N1 death has been confirmed in Clermont County.

As the Clermont County General Health District winds up its first round of countywide H1N1 school vaccination clinics, it’s estimated that almost 14,000 children in Clermont County have received vaccinations.  That number includes school age children and their younger siblings; children 9 and under will receive a second dose of the vaccine at the schools in mid-December.  Over 3,100 vaccines have been provided to other high risk groups including emergency personnel and health care workers, pregnant women, caregivers of young children, and adults with chronic health conditions at the General Health District Clinic.

Among those vaccination clinics currently scheduled (High Risk, Tier 1 individuals only):

• Tuesday, November 24 at Clermont County Development Disabilities
• Closed clinic for CCDD staff and clients only
• Wednesday, November 25 at Medical Social Services Building, from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Open clinic for those 24 and younger. No appointment needed, on first come, first served basis

•  Tuesday, December 1 at Daycare Clinic at Child Focus
• Open evening clinic for children 5 yrs. and younger, pregnant women, and caregivers of children under 6 months of age
•  Saturday, December 5 at Daycare Clinic at Clermont County Fairgrounds, 4H Building

For children 5 yrs. and younger, pregnant women, and caregivers of children under 6 months

**Another clinic is being planned in early December for UC Clermont students.

“At this time I do not anticipate that we will be able to offer vaccination clinics to the general public until late December or early January,” said Lambert.  For more information about the clinics listed above, visit the Web site www.ClermontHealthDistrict.org or check the Clermont Flu Hotline at (513) 588-5121. 

Emily MacLeod of Loveland, Ohio Named Great Lakes Region Athlete of the Year

EAST LANSING, Mich. - Junior Emily MacLeod (Loveland, Ohio) of the Michigan State cross country team has been named the 2009 Great Lakes Region Athlete of the Year as announced by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) on Thursday, Nov. 19. MacLeod, who became the fourth Spartan all-time to win an NCAA Regional event, won the NCAA Great Lakes Regional by over nine seconds with a time of 20:42.70 on Saturday. In doing so, MacLeod becomes the second-consecutive Spartan to earn the Great Lakes Region Athlete of the Year honors.Read on...

Final Round of School Vaccination Clinics This Week

Open Clinic for Children on November 25

The Clermont County General Health District is holding the final week of school clinics to administer H1N1 vaccinations; children 9 and younger will receive a second shot in about a month.  This week, clinics are set for students at Grant Vocational School, Live Oaks Vocational School, Goshen Middle School, Goshen High School, Milford High School, Milford middle schools, Glen Este High School, Glen Este middle schools, Amelia High School, Amelia middle schools, and Bethel Tate High School.  Vaccinations are given during the regular school day and are only available for children attending the schools listed above. For days of the school clinics, contact the school where your child attends.

The Clermont General Health District will hold an open clinic on Wednesday, November 25, 2009 for those between the ages of 6 months and 24 years, between 9:30 AM and noon at the Clermont Medical Social Services Building, located at 2400 Clermont Center Drive in Batavia.  “This clinic provides a great opportunity for children who have been away at college to obtain an H1N1 shot while they are home on Thanksgiving break,” said Clermont Health Commissioner Marty Lambert.  The shots will be given on a first come, first served basis.

“We are also taking appointments for immunizations for pregnant women, healthcare workers, caregivers of children under the age of 6 months, and those under 65 with chronic health conditions,” said Lambert.  Call (513) 735-8400 to make an appointment.  Dates, times, and locations are being finalized for two upcoming clinics for day care age children.  These clinics will be held after Thanksgiving (November 26, 2009).

For more information about the H1N1 virus, call the Clermont Health District Flu Hotline at (513) 558-5121 or visit the Web site www.ClermontHealthDistrict.org.

 

Clermont County Humane Society Says Thanks

“The homeless and unwanted animals in the county thank you for your generosity,” said Clermont County Humane Society President Molly Geise.  “Over 240 people attended the annual dinner and auction that raised over $20,000 for the Clermont County Humane Society.”  The November 7 fundraiser was held at the Norlyn Manor in Batavia Township; the silent and live auctions featured over 300 items including original artwork, deluxe vacation accommodations, and Cincinnati Bengals signed items.

“We are indebted to all the wonderful people who continue to support this auction and the Humane Society, through their donations, attendance, and behind the scenes efforts,” said Geise.  “Unfortunately, adoption fees alone do not generate enough revenue to cover the expenses needed to care for our animals.  Fundraising events, such as this auction, help us offset that deficit.”

“The number of animals received to date is down from last year and that is a good thing,” said Clermont Animal Shelter Director Kim Naegel, “However, many people are telling us they have had to relocate as a result of the economy and cannot take their pets with them.  Sadly, the number of adoptions has decreased since last year.  We have some wonderful animals here that would make fabulous additions to many households.”

To contact the Clermont County Animal Shelter, call (513) 732-8854 or visit the Web site www.ClermontCountyAnimalShelter.com.

 

Loveland High School College Signings

LOVELAND, OHIO - In an after-school ceremony on November 12, eight Loveland High School Athletes announced their intent to further their athletic careers at the university level.

Brandon Williams is a 4 year varsity swimmer at Loveland. He is a 3 time all conference performer in the 200 yard medley, 100 yard freestyle and 100 yard backstroke.  He has been to the state championships in the 50 yard freestyle, the 100 yard breaststroke, 200 yard medley and the 400 yard freestyle relay.  He swims for the Mason Mante Rays where he has been to the Junior Nationals in the 50 yard freestyle.  Williams has accepted a scholarship to Michigan State University where he will be swimming for the Spartans next fall.

Mollie Kuramoto is a 4 year varsity soccer player having been named All Conference 3 years.  She is the President of Student Council, a member of the National Honor Society, LINK Crew, Art Club and Partners Club.  She was named All City her senior year as well as All State.  Her club team Cincinnati United Premier has been to 3 regional championships.  Kuramoto is a 4 year recipient of the FAVC All Academic Team and has a grade point average of 4.24.  She will continue her soccer career at Purdue University.


Samantha Wheeler is a 4 year varsity swimmer and a 3 time first team All FAVC recipient.  She was named FAC Swimmer of the Year as a junior as well as All City in the 100 yd breast stroke.  Wheeler has gone to the state championships in the 200 yard medley and 100 yard breast stroke finishing 5th as a junior. She was recently named an Academic All American by US Swimming and is a 3 year All FAVC Academic recipient, a member of the National Honor Society and carries a GPA of 3.90.  Wheeler will continue her swimming career at the University of Cincinnati.

Andrew Newbold is a 2 year varsity football player and a 3 year varsity Lacrosse player.    In football, Newbold was named 1st team All FAVC and received the Stan McCoy 100% Tiger award for his effort and dedication.  In Lacrosse, Newbold is a 3 year varsity player and was named to the All district team as a junior.  He is a member of the National Honor Society and has a GPA of 3.84, and will continue his Lacrosse career at Sacred Heart University.

Katelyn Jarvis is a member of the Athletic Leadership Team, the START Club and the National Honor Society.  She is a 2 year varsity volleyball player and recently won the Edward Jones Student Athlete Award for her efforts on the court and in the classroom.  In Lacrosse, Jarvis is a 4 year varsity player having been named to the All District and All State team.  Last year she was 10th in the state in scoring while being named the teams offensive MVP each of the past 2 seasons.  Last year she was named Team MVP.  Jarvis has a 3.76 GPA and is a 2 time All Academic FAVC recipient, and will continue her lacrosse career at the University of Cincinnati.

Ellen Iaciofano is a 4 year starter for varsity basketball and a 3 year letter winner in soccer.  She is a member of Student Council, the START club and the Athletic Leadership Team.  She is a 2 time All Conference selection in both basketball and soccer.  In soccer she has received the Tiger Award for effort and dedication and was named Offensive MVP.  She led her club team, CSA to the regional championship this past year.  Iaciofano has a GPA of 4.14, and will continue her soccer career at Tennessee Tech University next fall.

Adam Engel is a 3 year letter winner in baseball and football and a 1 year varsity starter in basketball. He is a 2 time all conference selection in both baseball and football.   In football he was named Offensive MVP as a junior and Team MVP ad a senior.  He was also the first Loveland football player ever to be named Offensive Player of the Year by the FAVC conference while averaging 191 total yards per game. In baseball, he is a 2 time  Offensive Player of the Year for the Tigers.  Engel is a member of the Athletic Leadership team and member of the National Honor society while achieving a 3.86 GPA.  He is a 3 time FAVC All Academic recipient. Loveland High School Athletic Director Jeff Zidron said, “Adam may be our first athlete ever to receive major Division 1 scholarship offer in two sports. While Big Ten football came calling, Adam will follow his first love and play baseball for the University of Louisville next fall.”

Chris Kuramoto is a 4 year starter for the boys soccer team leading the Tigers to 2 conference championships.  Kuramoto is a member of LINK Crew and the National Honor Society.  A four year all conference recipient he was named the Player of the Year in the Buckeye Conference for 2009.  Zidron said, “He has been selected Loveland soccer first ever City of Cincinnati Player of the Year and should be named to the 1st team all state team for 2009 as a result.”  Kuramoto carried a 4.25 GPA and will continue his career at American University in the fall.    

Trying to pass even higher levy concerns residents

More than 650 people attended the Tuesday, Nov. 17, Little Miami Board of Education meeting searching for explanations about placing the higher levy on the February 2010 ballot just two weeks after a smaller levy failed.  Read on...