Loveland Magazine

A Conversation With Fran Hendrick About Teen Suicide - Part 1

by David Miller

LOVELAND, OHIO - Fran Hendrick is a Professional, Clinical Counselor - a Psychotherapist and personal development coach, with a convenient office in Historic Downtown Loveland. She agreed to sit down with me to have a conversation about teen suicide, a subject we mutually agreed was an important subject to begin discussing in our community. Below, you can watch the first part of the conversation we had last Friday morning at Fran’s Self Development Place at 210 West Loveland Avenue.

On the Self Development Place web site, Fran has posted links to four podcasts related to our discussion about teen suicide: Raising Depression-Resistant Kids, Why “Small” Things Can Ruin Your Day — and what you can do about it, Like Mother, Like Daughter, and Knowing When to Get Help.

Fran has offered these guidelines:

Signs of Depression

• A change in sleep patterns -- sleeping all the time or having difficulty sleeping at all
• A change in appetite -- eating constantly or having difficulty eating at all -- resulting in weight gain or loss
• A lack of enjoyment in activities that had been pleasurable
• Feeling irritable; having difficulty getting along with people
• Thinking about self harm or death
• Inability to focus
• Feeling inadequate, worthless, guilty

Warning Signs of Suicide

• Getting affairs in order -- giving possessions away, settling debts, saying goodbyes
• Expressing hopelessness -- whether talking directly about wanting to die or speaking despondently about not being able to cope; not seeing any hope of problems being resolved
• An increase in drug or alcohol use
• A sudden change in behavior.  Sometimes negative behavior spikes, but also, a sudden sense of calm or peace can occur when a person has made a decision to end his or her life.
• A previous suicide attempt increases future risk.
• Themes of death that recur in the person's writing or artistic creations

Fran talks about “stressors.” She said that what constitutes a stressor is defined by the person's ability to cope. She said that it is important to build a child’s resilience so that they can face the stressors that inevitably occur.

Stressors

• Illness, whether medical or psychiatric
• Being involved in substance use
• Family conflict and pressures
• Grief and loss -- whether the death of a friend or relative; the loss of a pet; or the changes associated with moving, changing schools, illness, etc.
• Academic pressure
• Social/peer pressure
• Feeling inadequate; low self-esteem
• Coming to terms with gender identity and sexual orientation, especially when peers or family are not supportive
• Being victimized; experiences of trauma and violence.  An experience is traumatic if it overwhelms the person's ability to cope at that moment in time and development.

She highly recommends the resources you will find at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital web site if you wish to learn more about teen “Stressors” - Suicide Prevention Program / Surviving the Teens .

The Self Development Place offers counseling, coaching and classes.

Fran can be reached at 513-677-9800 or via E-Mail

Sign up for Invincible Voice, the free weekly teleclass the Self Development Place offers for "Depression-free Living."

You can view Part 1 of the series HERE.

You can view Part 2 of the series HERE.

You can view Part 3 of the series HERE.

Join the conversation in the "Comment" section below...

 

Bonnie McNett: They showed up to see what was for dinner

Not Just Some Holiday Visitors

Last Sunday morning, Bonnie McNett was having coffee and breakfast... getting ready to decorate gingerbread houses...

She makes it sound so everyday normal to interrupt a meal: go to the back yard, take photos of wild turkeys, finish breakfast, decorate gingerbread houses.

McNett said she started putting out corn to attract deer about five years ago, but the wild turkeys just showed up one day. "Now these guys come every day, sometimes several times a day," said McNett. "It is awesome and I never get tired of seeing them."

McNett lives along the O'Bannon Creek corridor in the Fairways at O'Bannon Creek subdivision. She said that last spring she had three Toms displaying at one time for about a dozen uninterested hens in her back yard. "They almost never bring their chicks. We've seen babies only twice in five years."

NcNett said that the wild turkey population is on the rise in Ohio and joked that she is pretty sure the ones she photographed are still living.

Did you catch what she said? McNett had 15 turkeys in her back yard last spring - That's a flock of turkeys Bonnie!

Last Call to Register for Loveland's Most Popular Sport

League Extends Sign Ups - BUT DEADLINE IS TUESDAY DEC. 1

Michael Cotsonas said that due to overwhelming response and high demand, Loveland Youth Lacrosse registration has been extended through Dec 1.

"December 1 is the absolute deadline, because jersey orders need to be in," said Cotsonas.

"Did you know lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the United States?" asks Cotsonas. "Why has the Loveland High School Boys team been so successful, sending players to DI programs, All-American selections, Regional Championships and State Championship appearances in just the last 3 years?"

Cotsonas said that the great news is that the Loveland Lacrosse club has committed to not pass along to their players the recent increases in jersey and uniform prices. "We'll keep our Youth and Middle School fees the same as the last three years." The club will purchase and issue the jerseys and uniforms for all players, and at the end of the season, will collect and reuse them for the next season.

Register Online

*2nd graders who want to play will be placed on a wait list; if there is room on one of the 3/4 grade teams, they will be place them on a team, first come first served.  **To place a 2nd grader, email

If you have questions about registration - contact Jeannie Clements

To read more about the Lacross Program, read this past Loveland Magazine Article.

Lebanon Horse Drawn Carriage Parade

December 4 (1pm & 7pm)

This December, visit the family holiday event that is unique in celebration and charm. Each year, hundreds of horses and thousands of local Lebanon, Ohio residents prepare for the coming of Christmas. Plan your holiday travel to Ohio and delight in the joy of a truly memorable Christmas experience for the entire family.

Enchanting holiday decorations, carolers, live entertainment and pictures with Santa all combine to entertain you the hours before the 1pm parade. After the stunning beauty of the afternoon parade, downtown becomes a Christmas shopping mecca, with more than fifty Lebanon antique and specialty shops to help you start marking items of your holiday shopping list.

As night falls, historic buildings and candle-lit streets provide the perfect backdrop for the 7pm parade. People of all ages line Lebanon's charming downtown streets, candles in hand, anxiously awaiting the first of 100 horse-drawn antique carriages to pass by.

The excitement builds as the parade marches closer and closer and then cameras erupt and candles glow as the first of more than 100 antique horse-drawn carriages emerges to majestically pass through the streets of downtown Lebanon.

Ready your camera and prepare to take photos to last a lifetime. This holiday season, you'll share the allure of Lebanon, Ohio as you experience the laughter, joy, and merriment of Lebanon's Antique Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade.

Held every year on the first Saturday in December, this Christmas parade has become one of the most unique and beautiful holiday celebrations in the Midwest, so make plans to stay in a charming bed and breakfast to ensure you get a front row seat for all the holiday festivities.

For more information, call 513-932-1100

Info from: Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau - Ohio's Largest Playground

2010 Kindel Memorial Holiday Concert in Montgomery

Acclaimed Violinist Jackie Tso

Queen City Bronze Professional Bell Choir

Cincinnati Boychoir

Cincinnati Choral Society

Blue Ash/Montgomery Symphony Orchestra

 

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5

7:30 PM

MONTGOMERY ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH

7950 Pfeiffer Road, Montgomery

MONTGOMERY, OHIO NEWS - As in the past, the Blue Ash/Montgomery Symphony Orchestra (BAMSO) will present its annual Kindel Memorial Holiday Concert on the first Sunday in December.  Also, the winners of the 2010 Young Artist Competition will be announced.

The orchestra will begin the concert with Leroy Anderson’s Christmas Festival Overture. Then the Orchestra showcases one of the 2009 winners of the Young Artist Competition, 13 year-old Jackie Tso playing the first movement of Paganini’s Concerto No. 1 for Violin and Orchestra.  BAMSO proclaims Tso to be an extraordinarily talented young musician. She made her debut with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra when she was eight years old. She was awarded 2nd place in the Concerto Competition of the Great Wall Music Academy in Beijing, China in 2007 and played Bruch’s Violin Concerto with the Beijing Broadcasting Orchestra in the Beijing Music Hall in July 2008. She has played in master classes for Pinchas Zukerman and Vadim Repin and was selected by Cincy Magazine as one of the most interesting people in 2009.

Then the Queen City Bronze, Cincinnati’s only professional bell choir, will join the Orchestra to set the rafter’s ringing with some traditional carols and spirituals. This three-octave bell choir was formed for the purpose of performing on stage with the Cincinnati Pops during their 2008 Holiday Concert series. Following praise from the Pops organization and concertgoers, members of the ensemble made a decision to expand the group and the repertoire to become a full-time ensemble. “You are in for a treat,” according to BAMSO.

Following the intermission, full of good cheer and complimentary cookies and cider, the Cincinnati Boychoir takes the stage with carols and songs, both sacred and secular. Those who appreciate the ethereal voices of a top-notch Boychoir will be thrilled. Recognized internationally as one of America’s finest Boychoirs, the Cincinnati Boychoir has performed at the invitation of and in collaboration with the Cincinnati Opera, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and May Festival Chorus as well as orchestras around the country.

For more fantastic choral music, the Cincinnati Choral Society will join the Cincinnati Boychoir for the traditional Hanukkah Mao Tzur and two well-loved choruses from Handel’s Messiah: “And the Glory of the Lord” and “Hallelujah”.  The Choral Society will continue the program with traditional carols.  The concert concludes with a carol sing by audience and performers accompanied by the Orchestra.

This concert has become the traditional beginning to the holiday season for Blue Ash and Montgomery residents, and they welcome all in Greater Cincinnati to join them. 7:30 PM on Sunday, December 5, at the Montgomery Assembly of God Church, 7950 Pfeiffer Road.

The concert is free and open to the public.

Stage Company Holiday Show for "Christmas in Loveland"

LOVELAND, OHIO NEWS - The Loveland Stage Company will present three Holiday Shows during "Christmas in Loveland.

Show Date: December 18

Show Times: 5, 6, and 7 PM

There is no charge for this show.

Directions

International Creche Exhibit & Luncheon Series

Viewing the International Crèche Exhibit at Grailville, and staying for the luncheon has become a Christmas holiday tradition at the conference center and retreat on the 300 acre farm just at the Loveland city limits.

The Advent season will continue with their International Crèche Exhibit and Luncheon Series featuring artist Trina Paulus on December 7, 8, 9,10, and December 13,14, and 15. Additional days may be available for groups of 35 or more. The Crèche Exhibit is open to the public at other times by appointment.

Each year Grailville presents over 40 International crèche sets for the public to view.

A holiday luncheon will be followed by a short presentation. Artist and Grail member Trina Paulus will share experiences of her time at Grailville, her artwork and "reflections on the modern day relevance of Advent." Grailville staff will speak on the origin of the Nativity scene and talk about the history and background of many of the Nativity sets in the Grailville International Crèche Collection.

Groups attend by making an advanced reservation.

The doors open at 12 noon; the luncheon is served at 12:30 and the program begins at 1:30 pm. Typically the program ends at 2:00, with time after for browsing the Grailville Store for some of your holiday shopping needs.

The cost for a luncheon is $15.00 per person and $8.00 for children 10 and under; advance reservations with payment are required.

For additional information about Grailville’s Crèche Exhibit and Luncheon Series or reservations call Grailville at 513-683-2340.

Directions

The Coming of the Light Advent Celebration

You can join the Grailville community as they mark the season of Advent with Song, viewing their Crèche exhibit, readings, visiting, and enjoying something hot to drink.

In this darkest season of the year we celebrate the season of Advent. The cold dark days turn our focus inward to the spiritual preparation of our heart and hearth. We will mark the season of Advent with Song, viewing the Crèche exhibit, readings, visiting and something hot to drink. Artist and Grail member Trina Paulus will share with us experiences of her time at Grailville, her artwork and reflections on the modern day relevance of Advent.

The Grailville Store will be open for you to purchase Paulus’ book Hope for the Flowers. She will be available for book signing.

Please let Grailville know if you would like to join them for this event to herald in the Advent Season.

The Coming of the Light Advent Celebration is held Sunday, December 5, at Grailville, 932 O’Bannonville Road. Suggested donation is $10 per person.

For information contact 513-683-2340.

Sunday December 5, 2010
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Reservations Required.

Contribute Ideas How Schools Can Operate Effectively and Efficiently

A message from Ohio Smart Schools:

Ohioans have a long tradition of resourcefulness and innovation that can help us and state leaders shape our future investments in public education. We invite you to contribute your ideas about how Ohio schools can operate effectively and efficiently, and to view and rate others’ ideas. We are confident that together we can create a better educational environment for our children even in difficult times.

Ohio Smart Schools is a collaborative, nonpartisan initiative of Ohio Education Matters seeking ideas and approaches that will allow the state to achieve innovative education reform against a budgetary picture that likely will get worse before it gets better.

Share Your Ideas/Make Suggestions

By the end of this year, Ohio Smart Schools will make recommendations to state leadership in Ohio to help provide ideas on how Ohio should continue its investment in education.

Ohio Smart Schools is searching out effective practices, the most promising research and ideas from the public in three areas:

• Improving student achievement without raising costs
• Reducing spending without hurting student achievement
• Tapping community strengths to help support student achievement

Helen Smith April 24, 1915 - November 27, 2010

Former Loveland Librarian

LOVELAND, OHIO - Helen (nee Buob) of Loveland, OH. Beloved wife of the late Stanley C. Smith. Loving mother of Richard (Barbara) Smith and Barbara (late Raymond H.) Davis. Cherished grandmother of Alicia Marie (Jose Pablo Lopez Vindas) Davis, Sarah (Scott) Moore and Aaron Smith. Dear sister of the late Rose Bunnell. Special aunt of Margo Smith. Passed away November 27, 2010 at the age of 95. Helen was librarian for the Loveland Public Library for many years.

Family suggests donations be directed to the Loveland Woman's Club Scholarship Fund or another charity of choice.

Mrs. Smith had lived with, and was cared for by her daughter, Barbara Davis at Davis' Miami Township home for the past year. After eating with family, Mrs. Smith later died quietly in her sleep. Davis said it was a peaceful event, and that she was lucky to have a mother who lived so long and that she was blessed to be able to care for her mother until the end.

Stanley C. Smith and Helen were married for 65 years. Mr. Smith died in March of 2008. Mr. Smith was known as “The Tomato Man” because of his love for growing them. He sold the tomatoes he grew as well as starter plants for many years at their home on West Loveland Avenue. The Smith's lived for many years in the Twightwee neighborhood off of Kemper Road in Symmes Township, before moving to West Loveland Avenue. Mr. Smith ran the Twightwee water system until the neighborhood was hooked up to a municipal water supply..

On Saturday October 15, 2005, Loveland Mayor Brad Greenberg declared “Helen Smith Day” in the City of Loveland. The occasion was the Loveland Women's Club's annual Tea and Fashion Show ("Fashion on a Shoestring") held at Loveland High School.

Marirose Stiver, the Women's Club President also presented Mrs. Smith with a plaque recognizing her as an “Outstanding Women's Club Member.” She said that Mrs Smith was one of the Women's Club “instigators” who got the library started again and found it a home in a church basement in 1966.” She was its first Librarian. Loveland's first Library was in the City Building that used to stand on Second Street in Downtown Loveland, but was closed in 1951 due to poor usage.

Mrs. Smith began working for the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library in 1938 as a Children's Librarian. She resigned in 1946 to begin raising a family. Her son Richard, was born in 1947. Barb Davis, a daughter who lives in Miami Township said, “Mom and Dad moved to Loveland in 1949. My brother Richard is a librarian for the Nashville and Davidson County Libraries in Nashville, Tennessee. I was born in 1951.”

Davis offered some other Loveland Library history:

“Loveland was provided library service for many years by a bookmobile that came from the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Library once a month. As Loveland grew, the need for a permanent library became more and more apparent, but at that time, county libraries did not work cooperatively with each other and so it was difficult to get a library started in Loveland, where three counties are involved. But, Cincinnati and Hamilton Co Public Library finally agreed to open a branch in Loveland and so Mom became their first librarian. The library opened in the basement of the old Loveland Methodist Church, now office building on W. Loveland Avenue on Jan. 2, 1966. In 1972, she was transferred to the Madeira Branch Library and worked there until 1977. When she returned to Loveland, the branch by that time was being re-located in what is now "Twice Blest" on Loveland Madeira Rd. She retired in 1980.”

The Mayor's Proclamation said, “Mrs. Smith and her husband Stanley moved to Loveland in 1949 and she put her career on hold, ...where they watched their children grow to adulthood and, over the years, their family welcomed three loving grandchildren.”

In recognizing Smith as an “Outstanding Women's Club Member” Stiver said Smith turned 90-years old that past January, yet for many years she and the late Shirley Fisher still made sure that every resident of the Loveland Health Care Center received a present for Christmas. One of the presents Mrs. Smith gives to the residents was a box made from old Christmas cards.

On having October 15, 2005 named as “Helen Smith Day” in Loveland, Mrs Smith said at the time, "I can't believe that people remembered me after all this time. I retired 25 years ago.”

Visitation: Friends and family will be received from 6 to 8 PM Monday, November 29, 2010 at Tufts Schildmeyer Family Funeral Home, 129 N. Riverside Drive, Loveland, Ohio 45140

Funeral Service: Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at Sycamore Presbyterian Church Chapel, 11800 Mason Rd., Cincinnati, Ohio 45249

Interment: at Rose Hill Cemetery, Deerfield Twp., Ohio

Ryan Hostetter Climbs New Foundland Iceberg

In May of this year, Morrow, Ohio native and Little Miami High School Graduate, Ryan Hostetter has done what few have ever attempted - mount a floating iceberg in the middle of an ocean, from a small boat. Hostetter and fellow adventurers traveled to New Foundland.

You can view a video of the accomplishment at 127definingmoments.com.  You can vote on your choice of "Defining Moments" - Look for the video by Dan Wargowsky, May 2010, location L’Anse Aux Meadows, NL.

The Living Nativity at Loveland United Methodist This Weekend

Dear Loveland Magazine Readers,

The 9th annual presentation of The Living Nativity will be presented on Saturday, December 4th and Sunday, December 5th from 4:30 -7:30 pm at Loveland United Methodist Church.

We invite you to make this community outreach offering part of your Christmas celebration this year.  Come and journey with us, outside, on a guided walking tour through 20 stations featuring a dramatic presentation of the story of  Jesus’ birth - through drama and song.  After your tour, you’re invited to visit with the live animals, including donkeys, goats, sheep and alpacas! And then you can come inside to warm up with some hot cocoa, cookies and Christmas cheer.

This event is a FREE  Christmas gift to you from your friends at Loveland United Methodist Church.

We are located at 10975 South Lebanon Rd in Loveland, OH.  Our phone number is 513-683-1738.  For more information, visit our website at www.lovelandumc.org .

Sign language interpretation will be available on the Saturday evening tours.

Here are driving directions.

If you would like to listen to a copy of our radio ad that is running run on Star 93.3 FM, please click to listen: Download Loveland UMC

Make The Living Nativity part of your Christmas celebration this year and please invite others to join you by simply forwarding this letter.

We look forward to seeing you in Bethlehem!

God’s blessings to you,

Pat Blankenship

Director of Worship and Congregational Care

 

“Carnival of Carols” at Loveland High School Dec. 11

LOVELAND, OHIO NEWS - Loveland's middle and high school show choirs, "Revolution" and "By Request" will be performing their annual holiday show called “Carnival of Carols” at Loveland High School, on Saturday, December 11.

Show times are at 11 AM and again at 1 PM. 

The show will include new and old holiday songs, with appearances by Frosty, Rudolph and pictures with Santa. There will also be games and food.

Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for students and senior citizens. Children 2 years and under are free.

Click Here to view photos from the 2009 Carnival of Carols.

Driving Directions

Loveland Students "Pass It On"

LOVELAND, OHIO NEWS - For the 10th year staff, students, and parents at Loveland Schools chose to “Pass-It-On.”  The annual food and goods drive, sponsored by the M/INT PTA, helps the L.I.F.E. Food Pantry fill their annual Thanksgiving baskets for those in need.  On November 19, students walked the donations down from the school to the food pantry on Lebanon Road. Read on...

A Conversation with “Hamill” Director Oren Kaplan

Part One of a Three Part Series on the Motion Picture

Hamill is the true story based on the life of Loveland, Ohio native, deaf UFC fighter Matt Hamill and tells the story of what it takes to be a champion, on and off the mat.

Hamill is a sports drama depicting the struggles and successes Matt faces on the way to becoming a champion. Raised among those with the ability to hear, Matt later finds himself no less an outsider amidst the Deaf Community. Through sheer determination, he uses his perceived disability as an asset, and becomes both the first deaf wrestler to win a National Collegiate Championship and an inspirational force to the hearing and deaf alike.

 

"The Heart Behind all Those Punches"

 

An Exclusive Loveland Magazine Interview by Reporter, Ricky Mulvey

Question- What were some of the struggles faced when you directed a deaf actor, and how did you overcome them?

Oren Kaplan- Well, to be honest, I anticipated a lot of struggle, mainly communicating, yelling to the actors, telling them action while they’re facing away from me, and all sorts of things you would typically worry about. For some reason once we got to set, there wasn’t really a struggle. Whenever I said “action” or “cut” everyone in the crew signed with their hands. So no matter which direction you were looking, you could see someone pointing action, or cut when the scene was over.

      From my experience I met a lot of deaf people that were good at speaking and not so good at speaking.  It just so happened that all our lead actors were excellent communicators, excellent lip readers, and excellent speakers. It ended up being pretty easy. To summarize, I wouldn’t let a deaf actor be intimidating to work with.

Q- This film won a few awards at is premier at the AFI Film Festival (The Breakthrough and Audience Awards.) What other festivals are planned for “Hamill” and where do you think this film will end up?

O.K.- We’ve been invited to a few festivals. Right now we haven’t committed though because we are formulating our final distribution strategy. We have seen a lot of interest from buyers, which I feel really lucky about because most low-budget independent films don’t get this opportunity. We’re hoping that something happens with the movie in terms of selling it. Hopefully it comes out in movie theaters early next year. Everything is up in the air so take all of this with a grain of salt. We’re really hoping to a have a very strategic release, where we show the movie in places where there are Matt Hamill fans. Obviously Loveland, Ohio: Rochester, New York: and Las Vegas where there are a lot of UFC fans.

There is a federal law that requires each state to have at least two schools for the deaf. Around all these deaf schools sprout these deaf populations. They are not towns where everyone is deaf, but are very deaf friendly, so we plan on releasing the movie in all of those towns.  Who knows? If everything goes well it will come out in a few hundred theaters, and if everything doesn’t go well, it’ll come out in a few dozen theatres and then be on DVD. I know that’s not a real concrete answer but we don’t know either.

Q- What are the Farrelly Brothers (Directors of Shallow Hal, Osmosis Jones, Dumb and Dumber, and many more) bringing to the distribution process? Are they actively involved or just investors in the film?

O.K.- That’s and interesting question. I’m actually having dinner with Peter Farrelly tonight which is very exciting for me. It kind of epitomizes what they bring to the process. They are not personal investors in the project. They have just been more champions of the movie. Peter Farrelly came to my house while we were editing and gave us some notes. He watched a few copies of the movie and gave us some ideas on dramatic structure, and how to make things work a little better. As cheesy as it sounds, for a filmmaker like me and the rest of the team Eben (Kostbar), and Joe (McKelheer), to have someone at his level of success and caliber of filmmaking, being interested in our movie in a genuine way (is great). He likes the script, the project, and thinks it’s awesome we are using deaf actors. Having him support us and being able to call him once in a while goes a really long way when you’re competing with thousands of other unknown filmmakers and unknown actors.

Q- What was the editing process like?

O.K.- We just finished editing the movie a of couple months ago. If we had a premier earlier than this we would have finished earlier, but we took our time until we found the right festival to premier at. The AFI film festival could not have gone any better for us. Nothing has been delayed, but we’ve spent 8 months editing the film, which is long, but not unheard of. The first version of our movie was two and a half hours and we had to get it closer to one and a half hours. It’s difficult when you’re making a story about someone’s real life because you’re trying to preserve the integrity and authenticity of the story, but you have to cut it down, so you really have to chose what is more important and what is less important.

Q- This movie isn’t a Social Network (the movie about the disputed founding of Facebook) situation. In this case you got the story approved by many people in the protagonist’s life. Was there any trouble keeping the identity of the story you wanted while having to please a lot of people in the Hamill family?

O.K.- To be honest, I anticipated having a lot of roadblocks. But, we didn’t at all. Matt Hamill has been so supportive and so has his family. Janet Rich, Mike Rich, his father, and siblings, have really been helpful. One of the surprising things that happened was that when we did the Q&A at the (AFI Film) festival people asked Matt about how he felt during certain scenes - like when hearing kids make fun of him when he was young, or about the Model-A he used to drive around. The audience was asking him about these things like they were exactly what happened in real life. He answered as if it was no big deal. Like “Yea when I got into that fight with those kids this is what I was thinking. Or, this is why I really liked that car I was driving.” Mind you this isn’t a documentary. This isn’t Matt Hamill driving that car; this is our actor driving a car that we managed to find at the locations we manufactured.

     On the contrary I know Michael Oher (Baltimore Raven’s tackle and inspiration of The Blindside,) wasn’t a big fan of The Blindside - and like you said, Mark Zuckerberg (creator of Facebook) does not give his seal of approval to The Social Network, but Matt has embraced the film so much.

    In fact, right before his fight (last June), with (“The Dean of Mean”) Keith Jardine, Matt’s whole team popped in and watched the whole movie. The movie has a few emotional moments, so there were these self proclaimed tough guys sitting next to each other all crying. And afterwards Matt went and beat Keith Jardine.

Q- What did you think about Matt’s latest fight against Tito Ortiz, and do you know who he’s fighting next?

O.K.- I think that fight was entertaining and great. It was a good matchup. Most people expected Matt to win, and if you didn’t - Tito gave you plenty of ammunition to not like Tito in that fight, based on his attitude and the things he said about the deaf community.

Q- What did he say?

O.K.- Like deaf people have soft heads and kind of joshing, and making fun of Matt quite a bit. He and Matt are still friends though. We invited Tito and (girlfriend) Jenna Jameson to the premier, and they would have come if not for a scheduling conflict.

   It was a good fight, and I know Matt wants to fight someone in the top ten for his next matchup. But my guess is probably as good as or significantly worse than yours as to whom he’s fighting next. I wasn’t given any information at the premier on where things are headed by Matt and his team.

Q- Who/what is the main antagonist in the movie?

O.K.- I hate to sound cliché, but as with a lot of these movies, the antagonist is Matt himself by far. I think a lot of people with perceived disabilities that are struggling to fit in to society are battling themselves more than anything. Some runners-up are the grandfather who teaches him tough love mentality. The whole end of the movie is one long wrestling match against Jason Sloan who is your typical bad guy. He’s a cocky jerk that’s never had a challenger who was the best of the best at the time. Then Matt came and pulverized everyone he went against, and Jason Sloan is the new antagonist at the end.  You can maybe kind of tell from the trailer about Matt’s struggle with himself.

Q- How big of a role is Loveland in the film? How will the typical Loveland citizen be able to tell?

O.K.- We took a creative license, but it’s not a stretch by any means. We did shoot in New York State. We never shot in Loveland, but we had a lot of people from Ohio with us and Matt of course.  They were consultants to the accuracy of the landscape and the attitude. People seem to be comfortable with that so far. We have quite a few titles that mention Loveland High School, Loveland Elementary School, and there’s a UFC piece where they introduce him as Matt Hamill from Loveland Ohio. There’s definitely plenty of shout outs but I don’t think you’ll recognize any of the landmarks.

Q- What did you get out of this film and what do you hope viewers will get out of it?

O.K.- Two things I got out of it that I hope viewers will too, is that I had no idea about the deaf community. I had never met a deaf person before making this movie and I had no idea about the sport of wrestling. I had no idea what the rules were. I think anyone without a background in both of those things will be able to get a sense of both of those things. A challenge we faced was how do we teach people about the deaf community and wrestling, without boring them and the people who already know about that stuff. I think we did it in an effective way. You have to weave the fact in the story. Whether you like the movie or you hated the movie, you’ll learn about a world you’ve never heard of before.

Q- Which community had the best reaction to the movie? I know especially the deaf community was hesitant to accept the movie when they first got word of it, but are they now on board?

O.K.- Before I was on the project, the movie was going to be cast with a hearing lead actor, and it was going to be a little more Hollywood and a little less authentic. I think that’s when all the negativity started. Why cast a hearing actor when there are perfectly able deaf actors that would do a better job. Once we did that - and really committed to that community  - and made it as accessible to them as possible - they were on board, and more supportive than I expected. We have a good contingency of deaf people on the team.

   As far as the MMA crowd, I think that’s where we’re going to get mixed reactions. We’re going to get the people that are happy to learn more about an MMA figure that’s in the limelight and see the heart behind all those punches. There will be those that will be disappointed that there aren’t more fighting and Mixed Martial Arts in the movie. This frankly isn’t a movie about MMA; it’s a movie about Matt Hamill. It’s a sports film but not an action movie.

Q- What attracted you to this project? What did you see in the script that made you want to make this?

O.K.- Most directors like to dig into something where they can pioneer something visually, sonically, or story wise. This is a movie with a lot of awesome sound possibilities, and I saw a lot of excellent sound potential in this movie. I love sound design and sound effects, and messing with people using sound. Another really cool thing is that this is a movie in two languages with English and American Sign Language. We have subtitles for the hearing when the characters are signing, and subtitles for the deaf when the actors are speaking. I just thought it was cool to mess with how to communicate a story. Even though the story is your traditional sports underdog story, the way you are beaming it into people’s brains is unique. It’s also a story people want to hear.

Q- Is there anything you want to add?

O.K.- If you want the movie in your area go to www.eventful.com/Hamillmovie. When it becomes time to decide where to release it we’re going to look at this website, so Demand It! Also opt out of getting the emails, unless you want a ton of emails about Harry Potter.

Editor's Note: For more information on Oren Kaplan and Matt Hamill read Mulvey's 2009 interview with the director.

 

HAMILL wins award at American Film Institute Festival

 

Hamill's Mother Janet and Step-Father Mike Rich in Hollywood for the Award and Screening

HOLLYWOOD, C.A. (WKTV) – HAMILL, the movie based on the real life story of UFC fighter Matt Hamill, has been named the winner in the Breakthrough category at the 2010 AFI Film Festival in Los Angeles. Read on... 

 

 

HAMILL - Official Teaser from Hamill the Movie on Vimeo.

Beachy's PK Helps Send Ohio State Buckeyes to Soccer Final Four

Loveland Grad Headed to Div I Soccer Final 4

Lauren Beachy and her Ohio State Buckeyes are headed to the to the College Cup Final Four in Cary, NC.  Beachy graduated from Loveland High School in 2006. She will play this Friday in a match against Notre Dame with a berth in the NCAA Division I National Championship (on Sunday) on the line.

Ohio State beat Georgetown 2-0 Friday evening at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium to earn the Final Four berth. 

Beachy is a team captain. "She led the Buckeyes from her outside back position in shutting out the Hoyas, while also netting the game winner on a penalty kick in the first half," said her former High School Coach, Todd Kelly. In the 21st minute, the Buckeye's Laruen Granberg tracked down a long ball at the edge of the box and was tripped up inside the box, resulting in a penalty kick. Beachy slipped the shot inside the right post and past the outstretched arms of Georgetown goalkeeper Jackie DesJardin for the 1-0 lead.

In a post game interview, Beachy said, "I knew it was my role to step up and do it," Beachy, already achieving a Big Ten Championship in her Senior season, continued, "I knew it was my goal. I wanted it."
 
Beachy heads to Cary this Wednesday for the Friday match-up with Notre Dame.  The game will be televised on ESPNU or ESPN2 at 4 PM or 6:30 PM EST (TBD).  The Championship is Sunday at 12:00 PM EST again on ESPNU or ESPN2.

Watch Beachy's post match interview below...

Loveland History Museum Christmas Open House

LOVELAND, OHIO NEWS - The Greater Loveland Historical Society Museum will be having a Christmas Open House on Dec 4 and 5, Dec 11 and 12 and Dec 18 and 19, from 1 - 4 PM.

The Open House, is at the museum's Bonaventure - the circa 1862, home of Dr. John S. Law, father of Loveland's first mayor. The home, a modified  Italianate style of the Victorian era, and will be decorated for the Christmas season with Victorian Decorations.

Also on museum grounds is the Rich Log Cabin. This Pennsylvania bank log cabin was built over 200 years ago by Thomas and Mary Ann Berry Rich, who came to Symmes Township in Hamilton County from Fayette County, Pennsylvania. It was originally located about one mile from the Museum. The original cabin site was given to Jacob Rich for service as a General in the American Revolutionary War.

The open houses will have free refreshments. The gift shop will be open, and a train display and operator will be all-a-board.

There is free on-site parking and, "Holiday cheer," according to Janis Fogle. "The Museum is a great place to do some Holiday shopping especially for Loveland items."

The museum is located a block west of Historic Downtown Loveland. For those already visiting the Loveland Bike Trail, visiting the shopping district, or eating in one of Loveland's good restaurants - the museum is a short walk across the Col. Thomas Paxton Bridge which spans the State and National Scenic, Little Miami River, and a one block stroll down Riverside Drive which features a couple of Loveland's nicly restored historic properties.

Greater Loveland Historical Society & Museum
201 Riverside Drive
Loveland, OH 45140
513.683.5692

Cincinnati Dulcimer Society at Loveland Library

Music, Crafts and Holiday Cheer!

LOVELAND, OHIO NEWS - The Cincinnati Dulcimer Society will perform at the Loveland Library Saturday, December 4, from 2 until 3 PM.

Holiday Junction and Toys Through Time at Museum Center

Holiday Junction and Toys Through Time

Now open through January 2

Yes, that's right. Holiday Junction and our Toys Through Time exhibit, plus tons of holiday programming and fun, are back and we want to see you!

Bring your family and friends this season to enjoy our whimsical 2,000-square-foot train display, Holiday Junction. Its theatrical background creates stages for model trains 48-times smaller than real life! Take in the exhibit and listen to holiday carolers, storytellers and participate in craft activities! Kids can climb aboard our riding train, The Cincinnatian, and oh! Expect a visit from Santa himself! He will be making regular visits to the exhibit, so be sure to have the kids bring their lists. Members, Holiday Junction is free for you, and non-Members, you can see it with the purchase of an All Museums Pass or a ticket to the Cincinnati History Museum.

After you explore Holiday Junction, head to the John A. Ruthven Exhibit Gallery to see Toys Through Time. Sharing this exhibit with your family and friends is great fun. It's like a stroll down memory lane where parents and grandparents, you can "show and tell" all about the toys you used to play with growing up. Makes for some fun conversations! This exhibit is free and open to the public.

For Complete Info Click Here.

Holiday programming all over the building:

Grandparents’ Brunch

Enjoy a hot breakfast station, pastries and fruit, a carving station, desserts and lots of holiday fun with your grandchildren.

December 5

Two seatings: 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.

$31.75 adults, $18.75 children and $29.75 Member adults, $16.75 member children. Kids 4 and under are free. Call (513) 287-7000 to make your reservation.

North Pole Pajama Party

The popular North Pole Pajama Party returns and you’re invited! Wear your favorite PJ's and drink hot chocolate, decorate sugar cookies, create fun crafts, enjoy holiday inspired performances and an elfin DJ spinning holiday tunes. Get out on the dance floor with the elves and Mr. and Mrs. Claus!

December 19 – 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Make your reservations by calling (513) 287-7000. $20 Member child, $25 non-Member child and $10 adults.Pre-register by December 10 and receive a discount!

CINCINNATI HISTORY MUSEUM

Peltznickel Visits the Public Landing

Meet an early German Gift giver dressed in furs.

December 4, 5, 18 & 19 – 1 to 4 p.m.

Message to Santa

Write a message to Santa and translate it into Morse code. Then, send the message by Morse code and receive an answer!

December 4, 11 – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lithographs

Yes, you can print from stone! Mr. Henry Lovie will bring Christmas scenes and historic holiday personalities to life from stone.

December 11 & 24 – 1 to 4 p.m.

’Twas the Night before Christmas Radio Show

Be part of an actual broadcast recreation of a 1940s radio program.

December 18 – noon, 1 & 2 p.m.

December 19 – 1, 2 & 3 p.m.

Bishop Family Holiday Home Theater

Be a part of a Bishop family tradition and participate in a home theater rendition of “A Christmas Carol.”

December 22 – 1 to 3 p.m.

Holiday Postcards

Visit our Print Shop on the Public Landing and see where cards were printed and then pick one of the designs and color the image yourself! When you’re finished, you can take the card home with you or send it to a friend or loved one through our Post Office.

November 20 & 21, December 11 & 12, January 1 & 2 – 2 to 4 p.m.

DUKE ENERGY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Where in the World: Cup of Unity

Kwanzaa is a celebration of family and heritage. Learn about one of the Kwanzaa traditions - Kikiombe cha Umoja, the Cup of Unity.

December 26 & January 1 – 2 p.m.

Where in the World: Diwali Diyas

Learn about the festival of Diwali and design your own Diwali Diya.

November 5 & December 10 – 3 p.m.

Where in the World: Dreidel

Learn about a fun Hanukkah game and tradition – Dreidel!

December 1, 3 & 8 – 3 p.m.

Super Sprouts: Diwali Decorations

Explore this Indian holiday and decorate your own Toran.

December 6 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.December 9 – 2 to 4 p.m.

Young at Art: Handmade Gift Bags

Experiment with pattern making while designing your own personalized gift bag.

December 18, 19 & 21 – 3 p.m.

Happen’s Toy Lab!

Pick out seven toy parts from Happen Inc’s massive collection of recycled toy parts, take them to the wacky profes-sors, and in minutes you’ll have created your very own one-of-a-kind toy. Cost is $10 per toy.

November 28 – 1 to 3:30 p.m.

December 11 & 18 – Noon to 3 p.m.

Jennifer's Candy Cane Concert

Join Jennifer Ellis for an interactive high-energy holiday music show. Celebrate the season. Sing and cheer. Dance to your favorites but once a year. Come to Jennifer's sing-a-long for a joyful sweet time.

December 11 – 12:30 & 2:30 p.m.

Super Sprouts: A Celebration of Light

Learn about the importance of light for many winter holidays.

December 13 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

December 16 – 2 to 4 p.m.

Super Sprouts: Jingle Bell Bracelets

Create your own sounds of the season.

December 20 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

December 23 – 2 to 4 p.m.

Super Sprouts: Firework Festivities

Learn about the many holidays that celebrate with fireworks!

December 27 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

December 30 – 2 to 4 p.m.

MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY & SCIENCE

DNA Ornaments

Extract your own DNA and put it in a holiday ornament or necklace for everyone to admire!

December 4, 5, 16, 23 – 3 to 4 p.m.

Pine Cone Bird Feeders

Create a special treat for your feathered friends using natural materials.

December 5 & 19 – 2 to 3 p.m.

New Hearing on Kent State Shootings Unlikely

The prospect that Congress will examine new evidence from the 1970 shootings at Kent State University dimmed Wednesday, when staff members were unable to meet a tight deadline to arrange a hearing before new House leadership takes over. But a Justice Department review still is possible.

A House subcommittee led by U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich of Cleveland had been trying to collect and review materials and line up witnesses who could testify about the new Kent State forensic evidence, which was uncovered by The Plain Dealer earlier this year. Read on...

LOVELAND by Ann Randolph

The Marsh – Bay Area (Berkeley) Theater Review
by Tony Frankel on November 22, 2010
in San Francisco Bay Area Theater

FASTEN YOUR SEAT BELTS

Loveland is the solo show that should be the template for all one-person show wannabes. Ann Randolph incorporates creative writing, broad but truthful characters, zaniness balanced with compelling dramatic moments, and, above all, an undeniably convincing story. In fact, you will be wondering if the tale of a woman who is flying from Los Angeles to Loveland, Ohio with the cremated remains of her mother is true (no, Miss Randolph’s mother is alive and well, thank you).

Frannie Potts. She would most likely be voted the person one would not want to sit next to on a plane – she’s not only hyper-sexed, vulgar, and inappropriate, but bursts forth opinions in such an irreverent way that you would hope there is a medication for people like her. What makes her so lovable is that we share her beliefs – especially true for me are her rants on people who hang out watching nature films at a visitor center instead of actually going outside. When Frannie utters another truism, “Supervisors are always in a meeting when you need them,” the audience collectively nodded. Read on...

Nearly 135,000 Receive Holiday Food Aid from Hamilton Count

Nearly 135,000 Hamilton County residents will receive food assistance from Hamilton County’s Department of Job and Family Services this holiday season, allowing them a brief respite from tough economic times.

A record number of recipients receive monthly debit cards from the agency, allowing them to buy groceries for their families. The families qualify for the aid based on their low incomes.

“Many of these families lost jobs or were forced to take lower-paying jobs because of our economy,” said Moira Weir, director of the Job and Family Services Department. “About a third of the people who have come to us for help over the past two years had not been here before, or at least not in the previous five years. These are hard-working people who were suddenly faced with not being able to feed their children.

“We are an agency that helps and this is something we do 365 days a year, but it is especially poignant that we can be a rock for this community to lean on during the holidays. We want everyone to know we are here and, if you qualify, you too can receive help.”

Recipients can earn up to 130 percent of the federal poverty level and still qualify for assistance. That is nearly $29,000 for a family of four.

“Most of our food assistance recipients are working families,” Weir said. “But they are sometimes forced to make a decision about paying the electric bill or putting food on the table. We help them stretch their paychecks a little further. We are glad we can help put a holiday dinner on the table.”

To apply for assistance, Hamilton County residents can visit "http://ODJFSBenefits.ohio.gov" and fill out an online application. After an individual fills out the online application, the paperwork is automatically forwarded to a county caseworker for review. The process is quick, easy and secure. Users who have difficulty with the application can call Hamilton County Job and Family Services at 946-1000 for assistance.

About Hamilton County’s Department of Job and Family Services

The Department of Job and Family Services administers federal, state and local programs for those in need. The Department helps with local child protection, elderly protection, child care, child support enforcement, workforce development, cash assistance, food assistance and Medicaid disbursement. Servicing Hamilton County since 1947, the Department helps hundreds of thousands each year and is accredited by the Council on Accreditation, an international, independent, not-for-profit child and family service accrediting organization.

First Thanksgiving with Pilgrims and Wampanoag Native Americans

Students in the first, second and third grade classroom of Children's Meetinghouse Montessori School performed a play about the first Thanksgiving with the Pilgrims and Wampanoag Native Americans.

The students practiced their lines for three weeks leading up to the play and were delighted to help make the hats, head dresses, and vests. 

E-Reader Buying Help at Loveland Library

LOVELAND, OHIO NEWS - Thinking of buying a Nook or Sony Reader for the book lover on your holiday shopping list? You aren't alone. E-readers are expected to be the hot gift of the holiday season.

Before you give, it's important to know which eReaders are compatible with the Library's downloadable collection. Keep in mind that by using your Library Card, you can download all sorts of ebooks for free. So that eReader you give will keep on giving long after it's unwrapped.

If you've been considering the idea of buying an e-reader, stop by the Loveland Library to learn more about them, try them out, and find out how they are compatible with Library materials.

Tuesday, December 7, 5:45 p.m.
Loveland Branch Library, 649 Loveland Madeira Road, 513-369-4476

Can't make it to this program? Find out more about e-readers with the Library's online guide about e-Readers for the Holidays.

Mainville and Pleasant Plain Dentists Sentenced to 12 Months

Bradley C. Brennecke, a resident of Pleasant Plain, Ohio, and Bruce A. Mrusek, a resident of Maineville, Ohio, were each sentenced to 12 months in jail following their January 2010 guilty pleas to conspiracy and tax evasion charges, the Justice Department and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced today. Cincinnati federal District Court judge Michael R. Barrett imposed the sentences.

Music Celebrations at Loveland UMC

LOVELAND, OHIO NEWS - The choirs and praise band at Loveland United Methodist Church will participate in several services throughout December.

The Chancel Choir, Chancel Bells and Praise Band will be featured in a carol fest type service on December 12th. Pastor Doug Sonnenberg will also deliver a message about the coming of the Christ child. The congregation will sing carols accompanied by a brass ensemble. All three services will be blessed by our musical groups.

RISE & SHINE - 8:15 AM - 9:00 AM - Traditional
A LITTLE BIT LOUDER NOW! - 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM – Contemporary
MORNING GLORY - 11:00 AM – NOON - Traditional

On December 19th, the children of Heaven's Voices from Above and Ring and Sing will present a poetic presentation, as well as songs of the season. Children from ages 4 years old through the sixth grade will lead worship at the 9:30 AM and 11 AM services on this Sunday.

MAP & DIRECTIONS

Trailer: Farmageddon, the Movie

Farmageddon is a documentary about the escalating fight for food rights in America.

Farmageddon is truly the documentary movie that we've all been waiting for. It's about raw milk, farm families harmed by the overreach of government, food safety legislation, and consumer food rights. 

Farmageddon is anticipated to awaken consumers much as did  "Food Inc", which was released in 2009. The 90 minute documentary includes Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund Board Members - Sally Fallon Morell, Gary Cox. Esq, Pete Kennedy, Esq., Judith McGeary, Esq., Tim Wightman, members Joel Salatin, Mark McAfee and raided farm families including the Stowers of Manna Storehouse, Mark and Maryanne Nolt of Nature's Sunlight Farm,  the Smiths of Meadowsweet, the Faillaces of Vermont and many others.

The Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund attorneys staffing the emergency hot line often receive calls from farmers during raids, and advise them of their rights during the raids. From the Organic Consumers Association.

 

Farmageddon Trailer from Kristin Canty on Vimeo.

Dog Licenses on Sale December 1 through January 31

DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP, OHIO NEWS - Don’t forget man’s best friend during the month of December. Warren County Auditor Nick Nelson reminds that dog licenses go on sale December 1, 2010.  Dog Licenses may be purchased from December 1, 2010 through January 31, 2011 without penalty (after January 31, 2011 the penalty is an additional $15.00 for regular & bone tags, kennels will be an additional $75.00) at the following licensing locations:

• Blanchester – Blanchester Lumber Co
• Lebanon – Auditor’s Office, Ace Hardware, Humane Assoc, Lebanon Animal Hospital, Lebanon Small Animal Clinic, It’s a Dog’s World Daycare and Grooming
• Loveland – *O’Bryan’s Wine & Liquor, Kings Vet, Animal Health Tack and Feed Store
• Maineville – Landen–Maineville Animal Hospital, River’s Bend Wine & Spirits, *Salt Run Vet Clinic
• Mason – Mason Animal Hospital, Mason Family Pet Hospital
• Morrow – *Animal Feed Express, Morrow Lumber Co
• Pleasant Plain – Coomer’s Family Market

                                    (*Tag sales December & January only)

Order in Warren County - (online and download applications for mailing)

Download Dogform for Hamilton County - includes list of Neighborhood Vendors

Go HERE for Clermont County Information

Deerfield Towne Center Annual Tree Lighting

DEERFIELD TOWNSWHIP, OHIO NEWS - The annual Tree Lighting at the Deerfield Towne Center will be on Saturday, November 27 from 5-7 PM.

Santa will arrive by fire truck. There will be a petting Zoo, six piece brass band, stilt walking reindeer, and horse drawn carriage rides. Whole Foods will be serving Hot chocolate and apple cider

Loveland School Survey Results

LOVELAND, OHIO NEWS - On November 16, the Loveland School Board heard the results of the "Citizen Satisfaction Survey"* they commissioned from Fallon Research, a Columbus and Washington D.C. based public opinion research and polling firm. Owner, Paul Fallon talked to the Board for about 45 minutes. These videos are from that meeting and break the presentation into seven segments.

*Editor's Note: The survey results are from polling only Hamilton and Warren County residents, and exclude the opinion of Clermont County residents. The School District has asked Fallon to correct this ommission. Those results are expected in a few weeks.

To best view the slides that Fallon speaks about, first choose "Full Screen" and then the "HD" mode.

PART 1

PART 2

PART 3

PART 4

PART 5

PART 6

PART 7